The proposed $30 million expansion of Coburg’s John Fawkner Hospital has been given the green light after plans were modified to meet community expectations.
Minister for Planning Richard Wynne has taken advice from an independent advisory committee and recommended a permit be issued, subject to additional conditions to mitigate traffic impacts, make a number of improvements to the proposed buildings to address heritage concerns and improve amenity impacts for neighbouring properties.
Mr Wynne said that while it was important to promote additional health services across Melbourne, he was pleased to see changes that addressed community concerns relating to the amenity and liveability of the local neighbourhood.
“We want to expand and improve healthcare services for all Victorians but this doesn’t need to be at the expense of our communities," said Minister for Planning Richard Wynne.
“Good planning can ensure developments strengthen local neighbourhoods while delivering vital services to a growing population.”
The expansion will provide an additional 51 beds, two new operating theatres, additional waiting areas, increase equipment storage areas and provide for 70 extra on-site parking spaces to alleviate impacts on local streets.
John Fawkner Hospital is the largest private hospital in the northern suburbs, having cared for upwards of 25,000 patients in 2014.
The redevelopment will help meet the growing healthcare needs of the local community in a modern, state of the art facility.
All redevelopment building works will be coordinated to ensure minimum disruption to patients, visitors and the surrounding community.