At capacity with no space to grow.

At capacity with no space to grow. How Portway Medical Centre became a community hub

In July 2017, one of Porthcawl’s two medical centres closed its doors to patients leaving one GP practice and two buildings. Already overcrowded Portway Medical Centre needed a new home for their existing patients, plus additional patients they’d be taking because of the closure. With no space to grow on either of their current sites, Portway Medical Centre wanted everything under one roof with the aim to provide patients of Porthcawl with a one-stop community centre.

Two years later and that’s exactly what the building has provided: space for the two practices to move in together, with room for the health board to provide services to the community.

The building has several features that provide a welcoming space for the patients of Porthcawl.

Flexible waiting areas give patients the freedom to sit wherever they'd like. Designed to make visiting the surgery easier for those with dementia, each floor is signposted and labelled to match the services that are available in that area.

"We are delighted with the new building, and the feedback from patients and staff has been very positive. The additional space in the building will enable us to offer more greatly needed services for our patients and attract new staff."

Karen Campbell-Ace, Practice Manager at Porthcawl Medical Centre

Using windows instead of walls allows light to flow through the building, creating a light and airy feeling for patients.

Thanks to everyone who made this fantastic building possible – it’s been a long-standing ambition for the practice and a long time coming. I remember coming here last year for the ground breaking in hard hats and high-vis jackets, so it is wonderful to see the building now!”

Speaking at the opening, Andrew Griffiths, Chairman of Abertawe Bro Morgannwg University Health Board

Appreciate