Gwaun Elai Medi Park

Repurposing of Units 3 and 4, Gwaun Elai Medi Park

Interior of a modern building with a staircase, metal railings, and large glass windows showing an outdoor view.

Interior view of a modern building with large glass windows, metal railings, and an outdoor scene visible through the windows, including a parking lot and additional architectural structures.

Interior of a modern building lobby with a staircase featuring black railings and dark steps, large glass windows, and a glass door entrance, with a view of outdoor landscaping.

Interior view of a modern, well-lit upper-floor corridor with large windows overlooking a residential neighborhood with trees and houses, and a metal railing around an open staircase.

Interior view of a modern stairwell with metal handrails, gray carpeted flooring, and large panoramic windows overlooking the street outside.

Originally constructed in the early 2000s, Gwaun Elai Medi Park comprises four detached buildings designed for medical use. Located adjacent to the Royal Glamorgan Hospital in Llantrisant, the health park has seen significant investment to enhance healthcare delivery in the region. Units 3 and 4 are both self-contained, two-storey buildings that previously served as office and laboratory spaces.

Unit 4 (753.44sqm) has been successfully transformed into The Snowdrop Breast Centre, a state-of-the-art facility jointly funded by the Welsh Government and the Health Board. Designed as a ‘one-stop clinic’ for patients referred by their GP, the Centre provides seamless, patient-centred care for individuals with breast cancer. From diagnosis through to treatment and follow-up appointments, all services are delivered within this dedicated setting, enhancing the patient experience and improving continuity of care.

Unit 3 (540.48sqm) has been repurposed into the Hummingbird Centre, a modern healthcare facility focused on delivering comprehensive, multidisciplinary care for people with diabetes. The Centre brings together diabetes specialist nurses, dietitians, podiatrists, and medical professionals to provide holistic support. It also hosts Diabetes Eye Screening Wales and will soon offer joint clinics with specialties such as nephrology and ophthalmology, further improving access to specialist care.

One of the major challenges of the project was coordinating multiple supply chain partners while adapting to an evolving client programme. Prior to commencement, the project team conducted thorough Risk Assessments and Method Statements (RAMS) with all partners, ensuring complete understanding and compliance through detailed site inductions.

Throughout the project, clear and consistent communication was key. Our project team ensured that all stakeholders and supply chain partners were fully informed via detailed programmes, regular briefings, email updates, and on-site notifications. This proactive approach prevented conflicts between planned and unplanned activities, enabling the successful completion of all works in accordance with the design and the requirements of Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board (CTMUHB).

The repurposing of Units 3 and 4 at Gwaun Elai Medi Park has been a major success for the Health Board. The Snowdrop Breast Centre and Hummingbird Centre are now delivering high-quality, patient-centred care in modern, purpose-built environments.

The project team’s professionalism, clear communication, and collaborative approach were key to overcoming challenges and ensuring both facilities met our evolving needs. We’re proud of the outcome and the positive difference these centres are making in our communities.

David Jones - Senior Project Manager, Capital Planning, Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board