Jane Hutt AM has called for an extension of the engagement on the future of Sam Davies Ward, following the announcement that a Public Meeting will be held on the evening of the 30th October at 7pm, led by the South Glamorgan Community Health Council.

She said: "I feel that the closing date for the response of the 1st November needs to be extended, so that the outcome of the meeting can be reflected in people's responses. I am calling for an extension until the 8th November at the earliest.

''It is vital that the Community Health Council's response to the engagement is properly considered before the board comes to a view about the outcome of the engagement exercise, which has stimulated huge public concern in Barry and the Vale of Glamorgan.

''I am seeking assurance that the Health Board will not consider the future of the Sam Davies Ward until after the Executive of the Community Health Council has met on the 10th December"

There has been a public backlash to the announcement as well as disagreements from the Vale Council.

A petition launched to save the ward was submitted to the Welsh Assembly by UNISON having collected 1,858 signatures online and 11,407 on paper, a total of 13,265 signatures.