The HSE has revealed its intention to carry out a “comprehensive refurbishment and reconfiguration” of part of Ennis General Hospital.
Plans have been unveiled for a proposed redevelopment of the facility’s Pathology Laboratory which it’s said would provide an enhanced service to the people of the Midwest region.
A planning application submitted by the Health Service Executive on June 13th states the Pathology Department undertakes roughly 12 million tests each year.
With sample numbers having increased by approximately 50% in the last decade, it’s claimed the existing accommodation is “completely inadequate and cannot cope with any further expansion”.
As a result, the HSE says the aim of the project is to “provide an improved laboratory diagnostic service to the patients and the greater healthcare community in the HSE Mid-West area in a more efficient, cost effective, lean, and timely manner”.
The development consists of works to an existing building on the hospital’s grounds which houses the Pathology Department and is a protected structure.
Planning permission is being sought to remove the partition walls and carry out internal reconfigurations to provide an open plan Pathology Laboratory for Haematology and Biochemistry with an entrance lobby for drop-off and collection.
Other aspects includes the reinstatement of a window opening currently used as a door on the south facade and the replacement of all non-original doors and windows.
It’s stated the “comprehensive refurbishment and reconfiguration” would allow the facility to “meet current demands by increasing analytical capacity and implementing automated work practices for blood sampling as a diagnostic tool”.
Clare County Council is required to make a decision on the development by August 7th while submissions from the public must be in by July 17th.
