**Building in Llanelli Sold Despite Plans for Drug Support and Health Services**
A building in Llanelli that had been earmarked for drug, alcohol, and health support services has been sold to a third party, disrupting the planned services. The Hywel Dda University Health Board had submitted plans to house a range of services at the office building on Traeth Ffordd, North Dock. This included the relocation of the Dyfed Drug and Alcohol Service (DDAS) from Vaughan Street, which was met with concerns from residents about potential safety risks and anti-social behaviour in the area.
The Carmarthenshire Council’s planning committee rejected the proposal in September 2023, citing concerns about the lack of risk assessment, community impact assessment, and safeguards for residents and businesses. However, despite the pending planning appeal, it has now been revealed that the building has been purchased by a domestic abuse support charity called Threshold DAS. The charity’s chief executive expressed excitement about the move, highlighting how the new space would allow them to expand their services and support the community effectively.
Threshold DAS plans to use the Traeth Ffordd building as office space, alongside maintaining a presence on John Street. The charity views the acquisition of the building as a positive development for the community, with local councillors supporting the move. They have urged the health board to withdraw the appeal in light of the building’s sale.
Reacting to the news, the Hywel Dda University Health Board acknowledged the sale of the building and stated that they are assessing their options regarding the appeal. Despite the setback, the board emphasized the importance of establishing a health improvement and well-being centre in Llanelli to promote wellness and prevent illness effectively.
Alternative locations, such as the former Ty’r Nant county council offices adjacent to Parc Trostre Retail Park, are being considered for the services. While the health board had previously dismissed the former office building due to its distance from the town centre and inadequate public transport links, they have now expressed a willingness to reassess its suitability for the planned services.
The developments surrounding the sale of the building and the potential relocation of the drug and alcohol services have generated mixed reactions in the community. Stakeholders await further updates from the health board regarding their decision on the appeal and the future of the planned health support services in Llanelli.