NHS trusts in Wales could have to spend up to £100m to replace dilapidated and overcrowded GP surgeries, according to reports.
The Western Mail claimed that in some areas up to three-quarters of practices were classified as being in need of “significant investment or modernisation”.
Figures obtained under the Freedom of Information Act show that less than half of local health boards had submitted bids for government improvement grants since a fund was set up in 2004.
“The inquiries seem to show both a wide variation in amounts so far allocated and also the sheer scale of the problem of primary care premises in Wales,” Dr David Bailey, chairman of the Welsh GP Committee, told the newspaper.
“The implementation of those complete strategies where costings are available shows a capital requirement of more than £100m – nearly £40m just in Newport.
“It is likely that to see the full realisation of [Welsh Assembly Government strategy] Designed for Life nothing less will do.”
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