The HSE is seeking approval for a new community care hub and primary care centre for the west side of Galway City.
A planning application has been made to the city council for the conversion of Block A in Galway West Business Park in Knocknacarra.
The building, which is currently vacant, was formerly occupied by Aviva Insurance, and is located next to an existing HSE Psychiatry service.
The planned Enhanced Community Care Hub would provide specialist care for older people and those with chronic conditions.
The Primary Care Centre will provide a base for services in the Salthill and Knocknacarra areas.
The ground floor of the building will contain the clinical assessment, examination, and treatment facilities for the ECC hub, along with diagnostic facilities and the reception / waiting areas.
The first floor will contain the assessment, examination, and treatment facilities for the PCC, including clinical facilities for two teams along with ancillary rooms.
Administrative facilities along with staff changing and rest areas, and conference rooms, will be located on the second floor of the building.
The main entrance the building is to be relocated, and a new single storey entrance lobby built.
Other work on the site will include reconfiguration of the access roads and parking areas to accommodate the greater needs.
The plans include a total of 142 car parking spaces, 80 public spaces and 62 staff spaces, along with 20 public bicycle stands and a staff bicycle shed with 60 spaces.
A Planning Cover Report submitted with the application states that the site is within walking distance of multiple residential areas, and is also serviced by several frequent bus services.
It also states the providing healthcare services in the community will ease pressure on UHG and Merlin Park Hospital.
A decision on this planning application is due from Galway City Council by January 12 of 2024.
