THE Welsh Ambulance Service has unveiled a state-of-the-art new station in Cardiff.
The £8 million Welsh Government-funded facility on the Avenue Industrial Estate in Pontprennau is the new home of emergency and non-emergency crews previously based at the ageing Blackweir station.
The Trust’s Cycle Response Unit is also based in the new facility, which boasts a Wellbeing Suite for staff and a ‘Make Ready Depot’ where dedicated Fleet Assistants clean and re-stock vehicles, enabling clinicians to spend more time with patients.
Rob Brunnock, the Welsh Ambulance Service’s Locality Manager for Cardiff, said: “This project has been many years in the pipeline so we’re thrilled that it’s now complete.
“We have fond memories of our time at Blackweir station, but the building was of its time and no longer fit-for-purpose.
“This is a 21st century ambulance station to be proud of, and it means that crews finally get the facilities they deserve, which ultimately means a better service for people in Cardiff.
“The Make Ready Depot in particular is a huge advance and not only frees up crews to spend more time in the community but also improves infection control, which has been more important than ever through the Covid-19 pandemic.”
Welsh Government has invested £8 million into the project, which began in July 2020 with the remodelling of the former Merton House.
The opening is part of a broader programme of work to modernise the Trust’s estate, which last month saw the unveiling of a new station in Aberaeron for crews previously based in a Portakabin.
Richard Davies, Assistant Director of Capital and Estates, said: “One of our key priorities as an organisation is to ensure our people have access to facilities that are safe, well maintained and fit-for-purpose and which allow them to serve communities to the best of their ability.
“We’re grateful to Welsh Government for their investment in this project.”
Eluned Morgan, Minister for Health and Social Services, added: “I am delighted this new ambulance station has opened in Cardiff.
“These state-of-the art facilities will benefit local communities by increasing the time crews can spend with sick and injured people; ensure greater infection control of vehicles and equipment and help to maintain and develop ambulance staff skills.
“I look forward to seeing the new facilities in action soon.”
