Revised plans for Llanfair Caereinion's long awaited new medical centre could be submitted 'within the next few weeks', councillors say.

The new development on Watergate Street will see services relocate from their current location on Parsons Bank into a new purpose built facility, with plans amended following feedback sessions attended by around 80 residents earlier this year.

An update issued by developers Assura PLC shows more consulting rooms have now been added to the design for the site as well as 12 extra patient parking bays, and an isolated zone for seeing potentially infectious patients.

The development could also see 9 electric vehicle charging points installed in the car park - However, plans for a helipad have been scrapped due to cost concerns.

"The proposed building has been enlarged to add an additional four consulting rooms, split equally between the Practice and Health Board. Patient parking has also been increased by an additional 12 parking bays, three per Consultation Room," said a spokesperson in an update to residents.

"Last year, in light of Covid-19, NHS Wales also issued some additional design guidance for GP Premises. The design was again reviewed and some small changes made to proposals to introduce features to allow for safe operation during a pandemic situation."

However concerns about the accessiblity of the site remain, although the developer says they have included mitigation measures to help mobility impaired patients access the centre.

"We have done what we can to improve access to the site and will be upgrading the footpaths up Watergate Street to give a safe, step-free route," they added.

"We will provide a bus stop in front of the Centre for future use, if a bus operator can operate a viable service. We will also provide covered cycle and mobility scooter parking next to the main entrance, and drop off points for taxis and social services transport.

"However we recognise that, for disabled and elderly people in particular, it may still be a challenge to access the centre."

The development also includes plots for 19 houses to be built nearby.

In comments to residents via the Llanfair Caereinion town newsletter, County Councillor Gareth Jones said the plans would be submitted to Powys County Council shortly.

"I have been in constant touch with the developers of the new Health Centre and am pleased to report that they propose to submit a full planning application within the next few weeks," he said.

"The application will be submitted along with plans for a number of new homes on the site."