Campaigners rally against north Wales hospital shake-up proposals

Campaigners gathered in Rhyl earlier to protest against proposed plans to temporarily remove doctor-led maternity care at hospitals in north Wales. A consultation over the possible changes launched last week.

Ian Lang reports.

Hundreds of people have turned out at a rally in Rhyl to protest against the downgrading of maternity services at Ysbyty Glan Clwyd.

A consultation over the changes launched last week.

Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board says safety is its 'overriding concern', adding it'll 'listen to the views of all' before making a decision.

The mother behind the campaign for a judicial review has spoken of her relief over Betsi Cadwaladr's U-turn. Marsha Davis also described how other campaigners reacted when she told them the news on social media:

Betsi Cadwaladr health board have confirmed they will not contest a judicial review. The case was due to be heard next week. In a U-turn, the board said they would instead hold a consultation on the future of maternity services.

In a statement Simon Dean, interm chief executive of the health board said their intention now was to seek the views of staff and the public on options for their maternity services in the short term.

Controversial plans to downgrade maternity services at hospitals in North Wales may be halted.

NHS bosses at beleaguered trust Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board have "gone back to the drawing board" to consider future plans for maternity services in north Wales according to the shadow health minister.

Ahead of what would have been a second hearing to consider the BMA’s application for a judicial review into the plans, NHS bosses in north Wales are now expected to announce a consultation.

It follows protests and a 15,000 signature petition to the Welsh Government earlier this year. The health board was put into special measures last month.

Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board have been contacted for comment.