The proposals affect services at Ysbyty Penrhos Stanley in Holyhead, Ysbyty Gwynedd in Bangor and Ysbyty Alltwen in Tremadog.

Carol Shillabeer, chief executive at Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, said: ‘Access to urgent and emergency care is a priority for the health board. We are therefore reviewing the current provision of urgent primary care centres and are engaging with our staff. The outcome of the review and the potential future approach will be developed in the coming months.'

The move has sparked opposition from local councillors and politicians who argue it will create greater pressure on other services.

Janet Finch-Saunders, Conservative Senedd Member for Bangor Conwy Môn, said: ‘These centres were established to relieve pressure on GP surgeries and A&E departments. It makes little sense to remove that capacity at a time when our NHS is already struggling with demand, long waiting times and difficulties providing timely access to primary care.

‘Financial pressures and recruitment difficulties are real challenges, but simply closing services cannot become the default response.  Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board and the Welsh Government must explain what alternative provision they are proposing, how patients will be protected and what action they are taking to address the workforce shortages.'

A Welsh Government spokesperson said: ‘Decisions about the configuration of local NHS services are the responsibility of the local health board, which is best placed to assess the needs of its population. As with any possible service change, we would expect NHS Wales organisations to engage openly and transparently with stakeholders in line with national guidance.'