WORK on the new North Denbighshire Community Hospital in Rhyl may take longer than expected.

While the Welsh Government has given approval for the £40 million project to move to the next stage of development, Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB) will retender for a new supply chain partner - causing a delay of up to six months.

The health board is currently working towards finding a more cost effective partner before aiming to complete the next stage, known as a 'Full Business Case' - for September 2020.

A spokesperson for BCUHB said: "The Welsh Government has given approval for us to proceed to the next stage of project development. This includes developing detailed specifications of rooms, and working through planning permission for the project.

"This stage of the work also includes finalising the cost of the development. As a result of this piece of work, we have unfortunately been unable to agree an acceptable cost for the work to take the design to the next stage with our current supply chain partner.

"We have therefore taken the difficult decision to re-tender for a supply chain partner for the development.

"The supply chain partner is responsible for all aspects of the construction and planning of the development. Following advice from our legal and cost advisor partners, we have taken this decision to ensure we get the best value from public funds for this project."

The new hospital, which will be built next to the existing Royal Alexandra Hospital, will include modern, fit for purpose facilities for new and existing services at the site.

New services include a 28 bedded ward, a same day services for treating minor injuries and ailments, an intravenous therapies suite and a community well-being hub and community café.

The spokesperson added:"The time needed to re-tender the project, together with the requirement for a new supply chain partner to familiarise themselves with the scheme, is likely to take up to six months.

"During this time we will progress with other aspects of the final Full Business Case which can be organised now, including planning for the temporary movement of some existing services during the construction stage.

"We are now aiming to submit a completed Full Business Case in September 2020, with the intention to begin construction work in early 2021."