Burwood Hospital's new ward blocks take shape

December 16, 2014

Burwood Hospital's massive redevelopment is nearing the halfway mark.

Murray Cleverley, Canterbury DHB chair and spokesperson for the Hospitals Redevelopment Partnership Group, says work is on track for this major project, which began construction at the beginning of this year.

“It’s really exciting to see things progress and the buildings start to take shape – it’s great to see it all coming together,” Mr Cleverley says.

The 30,000 square metre redevelopment will be able to accommodate 230 inpatients and manage 80,000 outpatient visits each year. It will include an extended radiology department, a new outpatient department, a new main entrance and a new back of house area.

Mr Cleverley says more than $650 million of government funding is being spent in total on the redevelopment of Burwood and Christchurch hospitals - the largest health-building project in New Zealand’s history.

Buildings have been demolished to make way for the new facility, which will rest on special earthquake foundations. New car parks have also been constructed, along with a temporary main entrance.

The latest images show one of the three three-storey ward blocks – as it is now and an artist’s impression of how it will look when it is finished. Windows, sliding doors and sun louvres are among the features that are yet to be added.

“The first of the ward blocks, in this purpose-built facility for Canterbury’s older people, is expected to be finished by the end of 2015,” Mr Cleverley says.

ENDS

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