Nearly 14,000 Covid-19 vaccinations administered at mass centre this year

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The mass vaccination centre at Pontllanfraith Leisure Centre handed out 13,767 Covid-19 vaccinations between January 1 and June 1 this year.

The health board, which recently ended its agreement to administer the vaccine at the centre, has also paid Caerphilly County Borough Council £55,777 to use the centre since it took control two years ago, Caerphilly Observer can reveal.

Aneurin Bevan University Health Board confirmed the figures in response to a Freedom of Information request submitted by Caerphilly Observer.

Pontlanfraith Leisure Centre has been at the focus of protests for several years, more so recently after the council announced it could be closed for good if investment isn’t found.

The leisure centre and outdoor 3G pitch is set to close throughout August, as the neighbouring former comprehensive school will be demolished to make space for a new ‘vulnerable learners centre‘, as well as a sports hall and an indoor pitch.

But with the 3G pitch reopening, it’s still unclear what the future holds for the leisure centre.

In a previous statement, Cllr Chris Morgan, council cabinet member for leisure, said: “The 3G pitch will reopen in September, but now that the health board have concluded their vaccination programme at the leisure centre, the future of the facility can be formally considered over the coming months as part of a mid-way review of our ten-year Sport and Active Recreation Strategy.

“This review will include all our facilities across the county borough to ensure we are providing modern, fit-for-purpose provision which meets the evolving needs of our communities, whilst remaining sustainable financially.

“The decision making process will include wide-ranging public consultation and engagement before any decision is made.”