Four major healthcare projects in Mayo move to design phase
Four significant healthcare projects in Mayo are advancing to the detailed design phase, according to Minister of State Alan Dillon. The projects, part of broader infrastructural developments in the region, aim to enhance hospital facilities and community care services.
Minister Dillon provided an update following discussions with Mayo, HSE West, and North West representatives. Several healthcare projects in the county are at different stages of planning, design, or construction.
Key Projects Moving to Detailed Design
1. New 75-Bed Community Nursing Unit (CNU) – This facility will replace short-stay beds at Ballina District Hospital and long-stay beds at St. Augustine’s.
2. New 50-Bed CNU in Belmullet – Set to replace short-stay beds at Belmullet District Hospital and long-stay beds at Aras Deirbhile.
3. Expansion of Mayo University Hospital’s Emergency Department (ED) – Plans include a ground floor extension, reconfiguration of the ED with seven additional treatment spaces, a new first-floor Medical Assessment Unit with ten spaces, and an upgrade of C Ward to provide extra isolation rooms.
4. Daisy Lodge Short Break Facility – A 30,000 sq. ft. center for children undergoing cancer treatment and their families, led by Cancer Fund for Children with HSE support.
Ongoing Construction Projects
- CT Scanner Upgrade at Mayo University Hospital – Includes building works and an extension to house the new scanner.
- Electrical Upgrade at Mayo University Hospital – Supports the ED expansion.
- Reconfiguration of the Hospital Sterile Services Department (HSSD) – Enhancing hospital sanitation and efficiency.
- High Support Community Residences Upgrades – The refurbishment and expansion of residences at An Coilin and Teach Aisling to accommodate nine residents, expected to be completed by April 2025.
- Primary Care Centres – Extensions at Ballina Primary Care Centre (to be operational in Q4 2025) and construction of Ballyhaunis Primary Care Centre, set to open in early 2026.
Future Plans
- New Ambulance Base in Castlebar – A proposal is underway for a modern facility featuring a 16-vehicle canopy, wash bay, and training and education spaces for 134 daily staff.
- Development Control Plan for Mayo University Hospital – A comprehensive plan for the hospital campus and adjacent lands, in partnership with Mayo County Council, is expected by the end of 2025.
Minister Dillon emphasized the significance of these developments, stating, “These projects demonstrate our commitment to improving healthcare services in Mayo. Investing in infrastructure now will greatly benefit the community in the years ahead.”
With these advancements, healthcare in Mayo is set for substantial improvements, ensuring better facilities and services for patients and medical professionals alike.