Work on North Cork rehabilitative unit set to get underway this month

Construction of a new 10-bed rehabilitative residential facility is set to begin this month in North Cork.

The residential unit, located on the site of the current Owenacurra facility in Midleton, will be a purpose-built facility designed to meet the needs of the local community and its multi-disciplinary mental health team.

Construction of the new building was delayed due to several factors, with the primary cause being the necessity for a full redesign following the major flooding event in Midleton in October, 2023.

Enhanced flood protection measures have been incorporated into the redesign, which include raised floor levels, ramp access, and other flood resilience elements.

In response to a parliamentary question raised by Sinn Féin Cork East TD, Pat Buckley, a spokesperson for HSE South West confirmed that works are set to commence on the facility this month, with the duration of the works expected to take just under two years to complete.

“Planning permission has been granted for the development, subject to a number of conditions,” the HSE spokesperson said.

“The construction tendering process has been split into that of the main and that of the enabling works.

“The enabling works element of the project has been tendered and the Contractor is due to start works on site within the next two weeks.

“It is anticipated that the main tender works will be issued shortly, [and] once, the contractor is engaged, a specific timeline will be determined,” they added.

“However, it is currently anticipated that the first phase of construction will commence on-site in July 2025.

“The project is projected to take 14-18 months to complete once commenced.”

Mr Buckley said that the “new facility marks a significant step forward” in enhancing access to mental health services in North Cork.

“I am delighted to hear that work is due to start on the new 10-bed rehabilitative residential unit for Midleton,” said Mr Buckley.