Powys Teaching Health Board received over 700 responses to their public engagement over proposed changes to hospital services in the county.

The health board has revealed that since making their controversial proposals to introduce temporary changes to community hospitals in August, they have received roughly 700 responses between the announcement and the end of the engagement window on September 8.

These responses are in addition to the notes and feedback the board received though online and public meetings.

A spokesperson for Powys Teaching Health Board said: “We would like to thank everyone who has taken the time to give their views on the proposed temporary service changes and Analysis is now underway.

“Some 700 responses have been received in addition to the notes and feedback received during the on-line and face to face events that were organised as part of the public engagement.

OTHER NEWS:

The health board’s proposals would see the opening times at Minor Injury Units in Llandrindod Wells and Brecon cut and the downgrading of services available in Bronllys and Llanidloes hospitals, which would be designated as 'Ready to Go Home' units.

The plans are reportedly designed to be “temporary changes” that “aim to stabilise services now, whilst we work with communities to plan for the future”.

However they have faced heavy criticism from politicians, practises and members of the public, with fears that the changes will become permanent if introduced and leave communities with downgraded health services.

Montgomeryshire MP Steve Witherden said: “I am firmly opposed to any downgrading of Llanidloes Hospital and shall be taking measures to oppose this.

"I have also been extremely disappointed by the consultation process so far, not all of the relevant information has been shared with the public with the appearance that some stakeholders have been privy to more information than others."

Brecon, Radnor and Cwm Tawe MP David Chadwick added: “These proposals from the Health Board have not been subjected to the rigorous consultation process they require.

“Numerous residents, but crucially also local healthcare professionals have raised their objections and concerns to the plans that have been set out.”

 According to the health board, analysis of the feedback is now underway and will go on to be part of their “comprehensive report” on the issue that is due to be discussed at a public meeting of the board on October 10.