The leader of the Welsh Conservatives, Darren Millar, is urging Denbighshire County Council to reconsider plans to close Cefndy Healthcare in Rhyl, which employs many disabled people.

The future of the enterprise is being reviewed, causing concern among disabled employees. The decision is set to be made by September 23rd, leaving little time for exploring alternatives.

Mr. Millar, who is also MS for Clwyd West, said: “I was very concerned to learn that the future of Cefndy Healthcare is under review. 

“This enterprise employs many disabled people, giving them the dignity of work, and helping them to promote and maintain their independence. 

“I have already been contacted by a number of disabled people who works there and they have been left extremely worried about their future employment prospects, and I am sure my colleagues and I will hear from more in the coming days.

“This centre is a real lifeline for the disabled people and others who work there, providing them with a real sense of purpose. It is more than just employment, it is a life transforming place to work; the council must seriously consider that before making a rash decision.

“I therefore implore them to scrap these proposals and take the time to properly consider all alternative options which could safeguard these vital employment opportunities for local disabled people.”

The Leader of the Conservative Group on Denbighshire County Council, Cllr Brian Jones, who attended yesterday’s workshop and challenged officers over the closure, said:

“Once again, the council is dropping bomb shells like this on us backbenchers just a few weeks before a decision is due to be made, leaving little time for us to explore viable options for keeping this vital centre open.

“This is due to go before Denbighshire’s Cabinet. Decisions like this should not be rushed, particularly when the livelihoods and wellbeing of vulnerable workers are at stake.”

Denbighshire County Council has been approached for a response.