Llangollen health centre plans submitted

Artist impression of Llangollen health centre which includes midwifery services

Plans for a health centre in Llangollen have been submitted to Denbighshire council following the closure of the town's hospital.

The health board want to use the site of the former River Lodge hotel which is owned by the Welsh government.

Local councillor Stuart Davies said he welcomed the plans, which includes outpatients and other health services.

However, residents are still concerned about the loss of patient beds since the hospital's closure this year.

Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB) says its plans also include new GP services, therapies, midwifery services and social care.

The River Lodge was bought by the Welsh government in 2007, with the intention it would be leased to a martial arts expert.

But the deal collapsed and since then has been subjected to an investigation by the Wales Audit Office.

The health board's building plans have just been submitted to Denbighshire planners and have yet to be formally considered.

Welsh government approval is also required for the health board's business case meaning the new facilities may not be ready until 2015 if plans are agreed.