BARRY Hospital's minor injuries unit has reopened after work to install £240,000 worth of new equipment.

The unit was temporarily closed while the new X-ray system was fitted, but is now back welcoming patients.

Team leader and emergency nurse practitioner, Melanie Noble apologised for the disruption, but said the significant investment would lead to a better service.

She said: “Although the temporary closure of the unit has been disruptive for the local community we believe the service patients get will be improved by this investment.”

Erica Groves, the superintendent radiographer who led the work, said: “The significant investment in the state of the art X-ray machine will provide the staff with improved X-ray images and enhance the service.

“The team has been very enthusiastic about this project and are proud of what they have achieved and to be helping improve the service.

“This investment for all patients will make a considerable difference to their care.”

The previous X-ray equipment had caused a number of problems due to its age and difficulties in servicing and finding replacement parts leading to disruption of the service.

The new equipment will benefit a range of services at Barry Hospital, not just the minor injuries unit.

It will help treat inpatients, outpatients, GP referrals and the elderly care assessment service which aims to prevent avoidable hospital admissions.

Directorate manager for emergency medicine at Cardiff and Vale University Health Board, Loretta Reilly said: “This significant investment will mean that the service we are able to offer the community is much more robust and provides the team at the unit with excellent equipment when caring for patients.

“This investment shows the health board’s commitment to the minor injury unit and Barry Hospital and we would encourage everyone to make use of it.”