Welcome progress on new Mayo health units
Progress has been made on two new community nursing units
HSE West and North West and local TDs have welcomed progress on two new community nursing units (CNU) in County Mayo, which will significantly enhance short and long term care for older people over coming years.
A design team, led by Taylor McCarney Architects, has been appointed to oversee the development of a new 75 bed Ballina Community Nursing Unit.
The new Ballina CNU will be built on the grounds of Ballina District Hospital. The new unit will see the amalgamation of 31 long stay beds from St Augustine's and replacement of 27 beds in Ballina District on the male side. Twenty beds in the existing Ballina District female side will be in operation during the development and will be reviewed at the completion for continued use.
Construction is expected to commence in 2028 and will take two years to complete. The building will be operational in 2030.
Meanwhile, a design team will also be appointed for the new 50 bed Belmullet Community Nursing Unit in the coming weeks.
The new unit will involve the amalgamation of 29 long stay, Aras Deirbhile and 13 short stay in Belmullet District Hospital and will result in an additional eight new beds.
Work is set to commence on the unit in 2028 and is expected to take 18 months to complete, with the unit projected to be operational in 2030.
The design of a Community Nursing Unit aims to create a person-centred approach which supports the opportunity for older people to continue to direct their own lives in accordance with their cognitive and physical abilities, and in an environment which reflects the comforts of home.
Mary Warde, Integrated Healthcare Area Manager, Mayo said, “These are very welcome facilities for the provision of older persons services across County Mayo. They will offer the most modern care in a homely and warm atmosphere. These purpose-built facilities represent our commitment to our aging population and ensuring that the best level of care is provided locally.” Minister Dara Calleary and Minister of State Alan Dillon have welcomed the announcement.
My thanks to Minister Carroll MacNeil and the HSE locally for their commitment to these essential projects that will provide first class healthcare in North Mayo,” said Minister Calleary.
“This is genuinely positive news for older people and their families throughout Mayo. The appointment of the design team for Ballina, together with the progress being made in Belmullet, represents an important step towards delivering modern, comfortable and person-centred facilities in both communities.
“These new units will allow more people to receive high-quality short and long-term care close to their families and within their own communities. They will provide greater dignity, privacy and comfort for residents, while also supporting healthcare staff and helping to reduce pressure elsewhere in our health service. I will continue engaging with the HSE and Government to ensure these projects remain on schedule and move to construction in 2028, said Minister Dillon.
