News

Campaigners have won the first stage of a high court battle against the closure of a south Wales long stay hospital.

The families of four severely disabled residents of Llanfrechfa Grange Hospital in Gwent were granted permission to seek a judicial review of the health authority’s decision to close the unit and move residents into community based care.

Mr Justice Forbes at the high court in London ruled that the families' complaints were "arguable", including that there was no adequate assessment of the psychological impact of the move on residents.

Lawyers for families told the court that Gwent health authority had not given due regard to the wishes of residents before resolving to close the home. But Gwent insists it carried out full consultation, in accordance with government guidelines.

The full hearing of the case is expected in early December.