Discussions are underway to create a temporary storage facility for the deceased in North Wales.

The North Wales Resilience Forum, which is leading on contingency planning for the area during the Covid-19 outbreak, is arranging for a facility to be set up in Mochdre, in the county of Conwy.

The facility, which may be needed if the region’s hospitals and funeral directors are unable to cope with the rise in coronavirus-related deaths, will be located on the commerce park site in Mochdre.

The facility will act as a respectful and dignified holding point before funerals can take place.

Iwan Davies, Chief Executive, Conwy County Borough Council, said, “Whilst we are all hoping for the best, the Resilience Forum must plan for the worst case scenario and setting up this facility is part of those arrangements.

"The aim is to take the pressure off crematoria and cemeteries across the region.”

Arrangements at the facility will be conducted safely, in line with social distancing principles, which unfortunately means relatives will not be able to visit the site.

North Wales Councils, in liaison with North Wales Police, Coroners, Funeral Directors and Registrars, are working together on provision of this facility.