Enhanced mental health care is just around the corner for Tamworth thanks to a major construction milestone, with the three-storey building structure of the new Tamworth Hospital Mental Health Unit now complete.
The new facility will provide welcoming, comfortable and supportive care and bring a much-needed expansion of mental health services to Tamworth and surrounding communities.
The elevated, modern unit includes a new bridge which will provide a direct connection between the inpatient floor of the new facility and the Tamworth Hospital building.
The 23-metre-long bridge was built off-site, assembled at the hospital campus and craned into position in three sections. Once operational, it will make it safer and easier for people to receive enhanced, integrated care.
The new unit, which will replace the nearby Banksia Mental Health Unit, will include:
- four adolescent inpatient beds
- 20 general adult beds, as well as a five-bed adult high acuity zone
- eight bed older persons' area.
With structural works complete, the project team will continue the internal fit-out, services installation and exterior works.
Mental health services at Tamworth Hospital remain available during the construction process at the existing Banksia Mental Health Unit, which will continue to operate until the new facility opens later this year.
The project is being delivered by Hunter New England Local Health District and Health Infrastructure as part of the NSW Government's $700 million Statewide Mental Health Infrastructure Program. Hansen Yuncken is the builder.
The construction has provided a major boost to the local economy with the employment of local contractors and sub-contractors. To date, more than 400 workers have been inducted on site, with a significant percentage of the workforce coming from the local region.
Minister for Mental Health Rose Jackson said:
"It's fantastic to see the new mental health facility reach this milestone, taking us one step closer to delivering expanded and enhanced mental health services for the Tamworth community.
"With direct access to the hospital, the new unit will support better outcomes for people receiving mental health care, their families and carers.
"We know this new facility means a lot to the community. It will offer a modern, safe and supportive environment to those who need it most, which is why I am thrilled to see this project head towards its final phase before opening later this year."
Duty Member of the Legislative Council for Tamworth Anthony D'Adam said:
"It's great to see this important and highly anticipated facility take shape.
"This new mental health unit will make a real difference for the Tamworth community, providing more support close to home in a space designed with care and dignity in mind.
"I look forward to seeing the doors open later this year and the positive impact it will have for the region for years to come."
Hunter New England Local Health District Mental Health Services General Manager Jonathan Holt said:
"The new facility has been designed in collaboration with staff and the local community to create a welcoming and supportive environment for patients, visitors and staff.
"A new forecourt full of native gardens will be created and used as a place to gather, along with a family room and courtyard, providing space for people and their families to come together and help in the healing process."
