The construction of the Prince Charles Hospital helipad in Merthyr Tydfil cost £700,000, but unfortunately, because it does not have adequate lights or fencing, the Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board has asserted that it is not to be used due to safety concerns.

The safety issues in question concern local emergency helicopter operator Search and Rescue (SAR). SAR had planned to upgrade its fleet to heavier aircraft, and such a change brings with it additional safety considerations required by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). A spokeswoman for the health board explained that as per the new SAR fleet, the hospital would require safety fencing that adhered to maximum clearance distances associated with the aircraft. She noted that the distances and planned construction of the fencing have been confirmed by SAR, but the board is awaiting final approval from the CAA.

“Having received advice from the CAA, this has then informed our ongoing discussions for the permanent arrangements required with Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council and how the fencing will be constructed to enable the new helipad to become fully operational,” said the Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board spokeswoman. “This fencing is important to protect public safety when helicopters land and take off from the helipad and incorporates a small amount of additional lighting.”

Dawn Bowden, Assembly Member for Merthyr and Rhymney, explained that Currently, helicopters are using the old helipad to transfer patients to the hospital building. However, with restrictions on nighttime air medical transfers, the local community is not getting the 24/7 emergency medical service that it needs. Of this, Bowden said: "I understand there have been technical issues that held back the commissioning of the new helipad and I have discussed this with the health board. It is important that all the necessary works are completed so that those using the new helipad, and the local community, are kept safe in line with recent regulations.”