Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board has announced it is consulting on a proposal to discontinue urgent primary care centre services at three facilities in north-west Wales. The affected locations are Ysbyty Penrhos Stanley in Holyhead, Ysbyty Alltwen in Tremadog, and Ysbyty Gwynedd in Bangor. If the proposal proceeds, these services would cease operations by 31 March 2027.
The health board stated that while access to urgent care remains a priority, the centres have experienced ongoing financial pressures and difficulties recruiting staff. The UPCCs were established in 2022 and operate with a multidisciplinary team including advanced nurse practitioners, general practitioners, and physiotherapists who provide same-day treatment for urgent health concerns.
The proposed closures have generated substantial opposition from elected officials and community representatives. Multiple politicians, including Plaid Cymru MP Llinos Medi and Conservative MS Janet Finch-Saunders, have written to the health board expressing concerns. Critics argue the closures would increase pressure on already stretched general practice services and accident and emergency departments, reversing the intended purpose of establishing the centres to alleviate such pressures. Particular concern has been raised about Ysbyty Penrhos Stanley, which previously lost its four-bed hospice unit operated by St David’s Hospice in 2025. Holyhead county councillor Jeff Evans characterized the potential closure as having dire consequences for the community and patients.
Carol Shillabeer, chief executive of BCUHB, indicated the board is reviewing the current provision of urgent primary care centre services and will engage with staff regarding the outcome and future approach. The Welsh government stated that decisions on local NHS service configuration are the responsibility of the health board and that it expects transparent stakeholder engagement in line with national guidance. The proposed closures would not affect UPCC services at Mold Community Hospital or Wrexham Maelor Hospital.
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