Plans for a new benefits assessment centre have been unveiled by the UK Government.

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has submitted plans to transform a former dentist surgery into an assessment centre for Universal Credit and Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) claimants.

The DWP currently operates such a facility at Ty Glyder on Bangor High Street,  but have not made it clear if the new application will result in its full relocation.

According to the application which has now been submitted to Gwynedd Council’s planning department, the plans would see a change of use of the former dentist surgery at Canolfan Menai near Bangor city centre.

“The centre will be used to assess claimants for their eligibility for relevant benefit claims,” notes the supporting documents.

“The consultations are undertaken by trained professionals, however no medical procedures take place at the site. No hazardous or medical waste is generated.

“The central location of the health assessment centre ensures that claimants can easily access the site. The site is located close to bus stops, is only a short walk from Bangor train station and is near to a number of car parks, which each contain disabled car parking spaces.”

A DWP spokesperson confirmed that while all face to face assessments are currently suspended due to the coronavirus outbreak: “This planning application is related to the relocation of an assessment centre for Universal Credit and Employment and Support Allowance in Bangor.”

ESA provides monetary support for those who need help with living costs if they are unable to work, while also providing support for those able to return to work.

When the planning application was originally revealed, it had sparked hopes that it would house a permanent home for PIP assessments in north west Wales.

Following the DWP’s confirmation that the facility would be used for ESA assessments, Arfon MP Hywel Williams said: “I welcome the DWP’s plans forn an ESA assessment centre in a central location in Bangor.

“However, we need clarity in regards to the futue of PIP assessments while a permanent solution is being sought.”

Assessments for Personal Independence Payments (PIP) in Gwynedd and Anglesey were carried out at Ty Menai on the Parc Menai business park in Bangor, until it closed suddenly in November 2019.

After complaints from claimants living on the Llŷn Peninsula that they faced a 140-mile round trip to Rhyl while also being denied home visits, a temporary venue was set up earlier this year.

Located within Storiel in Bangor, a temporary lease was obtained in February while a more permanent solution was sought.

Capita has been approached to comment in regards to its PIP arrangements.

It is expected that Gwynedd Council’s planning department will make a decision on the application over the coming weeks.