Montgomeryshire MS Russell George says a new hospital development in Machynlleth will make "real difference" to the community.

Earlier this week the Welsh Government announced the approval of £15m of funding to develop a new community hub at the town's Bro Dyfi Community Hospital, which is says will establish the hospital as an integrated health and well-being facility for the local community.

Welsh Conservative Shadow Health Secretary Mr George said he was "extremely pleased" that the new facility was now set to be built, and said that the new facility would provide a joined up approach to health care services.

"The community has lobbied for investment for Bro Ddyfi Community Hospital, I am extremely pleased that the plans to develop a new community ‘hub’, to improve health, social care and well-being facilities will finally become a reality," he said.

"This has been a long time coming, and the development will firmly establish the hospital as a Wellbeing Hub, helping to deliver care closer to home within Montgomeryshire.

"Apart from the Health and well-being benefits to the community, the building is of historic significance for the local community, so the long overdue essential repairs will ensure its survival and make a real difference to the community and its heritage.”

"I am extremely pleased that the new facility will bring the GP practice, NHS, Social Care and third sector colleagues together, to provide a joined up care and well-being service for local patients.”

The Bro Ddyfi Community Hospital was originally built in 1860 as the Machynlleth Union Workhouse. It later became the King Edward VII Memorial Hospital and then the Machynlleth Chest Hospital before assuming its present role. The building therefore has particular historic significance for the local community.