PLAID Cymru's Powys leader has welcomed news that plans the party put forward on the future of the Wales Air Ambulance service are being considered.
Councillor Elwyn Vaughan welcomed the news after a meeting with the chief ambulance service commissioner, Stephen Harrhy, last week when it was confirmed that full consideration is being given to the proposal as a means of saving the air ambulance service at both the Welshpool and Caernarfon bases.
Cllr Vaughan had presented an alternative to the closure of both bases last December with the emphasis on keeping both bases open but working as one unit on a split shift system, continuing with the current services, but locating an additional RRV – Rapid Response Vehicle – to serve North East Wales.
This would be instead of the proposed new base in Rhuddlan on the North Wales coast.
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Cllr Vaughan said the split shift would allow day and evening cover.
He continued: “This proposal could potentially reach 600 extra incidents a year, 300 with the new RRV; 100 not lost due to the Rhuddlan proposal; and 200 extra with the extended hours of cover as a result of the split shift.
"This would not only protect our rural communities, give a better service throughout Mid and North Wales, but also save lives.”
Mr Harrhy, who is running the public consultation, said in an interview with the County Times that he was welcoming proposals and ideas from the public and encouraged people to get involved.
Councillor Vaughan agreed with this and added: “It is imperative that the service continues to be located in Mid Wales to serve Mid Wales. This counter proposal by us is a positive way of ensuring that whilst also providing an enhanced service to the North East.
“It is therefore imperative that as many as possible attend the forthcoming public meetings on the future of the service and make our voices clear for the sake of our communities.”
The next in-person public meeting will be held on Thursday (April 13) at the Royal Welsh Showground with other online events during the week.
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