latest designs unveiled

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A welcoming light-filled atrium and calming colours inspired by the three rivers surrounding Tamworth are among the highlights of the new Tamworth Mental Health Unit, with the latest designs unveiled today (8 August 2023). 

Mental Health Minister Rose Jackson said new artist impressions showcase the detailed designs for the new 37-bed unit, which have been developed following extensive consultation with staff, consumers, carers, community members and the local Aboriginal community. 

“This is a project close to the hearts of the Tamworth community and it’s exciting to be able to share the latest designs that have been shaped by their input. Community insight is invaluable and we want to ensure that we’re incorporating as much feedback as we can,” Ms Jackson said. 

“We look forward to welcoming the community and staff to information sessions being held this month where they will have the opportunity to view the designs in-person and speak with the project team. 

“The NSW Government is investing in building a modern, purpose-built health facility to help deliver better outcomes for our regional communities. Listening to locals and creating facilities based off their feedback is a vital part of this process.” 

The new mental health unit, which will replace the Banksia Mental Health unit, will be built on two levels and include direct enclosed access to the hospital via a new walkway. New staff offices will occupy the third level. 

The first level comprises the main entrance lobby for direct access to Child and Adolescent Community Mental Health Services, and stair and lift access to the adolescent, adult and older persons’ mental health inpatient beds and facilities. 

The new mental health unit will provide services for children, adolescents, adults and older people. It will include: 

• Four adolescent inpatient beds 
• 20-bed adult area, as well as five adult high-acuity beds 
• Eight-bed older persons’ area 
• Child and Adolescent Community Mental Health Services 

Mental Health Minister Rose Jackson said Aboriginal wayfinding will provide culturally sensitive support for the Aboriginal community to move around the building.

“The NSW Government is committed to supporting the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal people through active engagement to design and deliver culturally appropriate and welcoming health facilities,” Ms Jackson said. 

“The project team has done an amazing job, actively listening to our community and incorporating feedback in the design to ensure this facility provides a unique connection to the local community and culture.” 

Early works for the project are underway, including new carparking which will create an extra 44 public car parking spaces across the hospital campus. 

Main construction works are expected to start later this year and the new building is scheduled to open by 2025. 

The new Tamworth mental health unit is being delivered as part of the NSW Government’s $700 million State-wide Mental Health Infrastructure Program.