Concept design approved for Project Maunga

10 December 2009

Project Maunga, the redevelopment of Taranaki Base Hospital, has reached another important milestone with the completion of the concept design.

The concept design, which determines the relationship between various departments, was supported at today’s (10 December) Taranaki DHB Board meeting.

Taranaki DHB Chief Executive Tony Foulkes said an important part of the concept design stage was gaining feedback from the user groups, made up of staff members and community representatives.

“It’s really exciting to see this stage of Project Maunga completed, after a tremendous contribution by user groups and staff in affected areas working together with the design team,” Mr Foulkes said.

He said it was fantastic to see all the hard work of the staff begin to take form. “I am sure the finished building will give the community something to be proud of.”

The development will see the construction of a three-storey, L shaped ward wing resting on a larger single floor containing theatres and recovery areas. Stage one also includes five 30-bed wards, allied health and day treatment facilities for older people, sterile services and a day procedure suite.

The development will be located at the southern side of the existing Stainton Ward Block. The Stainton Building will be demolished.

The façade of the new building is proposed to be a mixture of warm, textured terracotta material around an aluminium curtain wall, with wide windows for optimum outlooks.

Project Maunga Director Ian Grant said the internal clinical floor plans were progressing smoothly, with more detailed design continuing next year.

“The new hospital building will provide a place where patients can be cared for in enhanced comfort and dignity, and in an accessible, friendly and caring environment.” Mr Grant said.