Planning application for primary care centre on Cork's northside to be lodged

A planning application for a new primary care centre on the northside of the city is due to be lodged by the end of next week, the HSE has confirmed.

The update on the centre set to be developed in the Mayfield/Ballyvolane area was provided following a parliamentary question submitted by Labour TD Seán Sherlock.

“Our HSE Estates Department have confirmed that the Mayfield/Ballyvolane Primary Care Centre is due to be delivered using the leased model format,” a HSE official stated in a written reply to the Cork East TD. “The provision of this facility has been tendered and both a provider and site has been identified.

“HSE Estates have met with the developer who has confirmed that it is their intention to lodge a planning application for this facility on or before August 15, 2024.”

The response further stated that HSE Capital and Estates “will continue to follow up pending and post planning approval with respect to the next steps for progression”.

Speaking of the importance of primary care centres generally, the HSE official said the establishment of “robust primary care centre infrastructure in specific geographical areas is crucial for providing integrated care”.

Well-equipped primary care centres, the reply stated, can “alleviate the burden on tertiary healthcare facilities by addressing health issues at an early stage, ultimately contributing to a more efficient and sustainable healthcare system”.

Welcoming the response received by his party colleague, Labour councillor in the city’s North East ward John Maher said the facility is “long overdue”.

Stressing the need for such services, Mr Maher pointed to the large number of houses that are being built or in planning for the communities of Ballyvolane and Mayfield.

“I welcome these houses and will always advocate for housing but it must be matched with services and infrastructure. We need this primary care centre and it must be delivered to create a sustainable community here in the North East,” he said.