A SALTNEY supermarket’s long-running battle to build an in-store pharmacy took a fresh twist when the Welsh Government quashed its decision to prevent one being built.

Morrisons had previously been given the go-ahead by Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board to build a pharmacy in the town centre supermarket, which would be the first to conveniently offer seven-day free prescriptions for people on the Welsh side of Saltney.

However, Boots supermarkets, which has an in-store pharmacy on the Broughton Shopping Park, and Vittoria Healthcare, which has a pharmacy on the Chester side of Saltney, appealed against the plans.

Welsh Government ministers then ruled the town had sufficient nearby facilities and upheld the appeal.

But now, following pressure from Morrisons and Saltney Town Council, the Government has quashed its decision and will hold a fresh appeal.

A Morrisons spokesman said: “Although we’re yet to receive official notification of the decision, it appears that common sense has prevailed.

“Our plan for a new pharmacy at the store has received considerable support from the local community who have welcomed the opportunity to access the services it can offer.

“We firmly believe a pharmacy service at Morrisons will bring many benefits for the people of Saltney, helping them to maintain and improve their current health and wellness.”

Saltney and Flintshire county councillor Richard Lloyd said: “I am really pleased that the Welsh Government are seeing sense. At the end of the day, Betsi Cadwaladr know more about the local area than they do.

“I hope now the appeal is being reheard, they will come to the right decision and allow the pharmacy.”