£338,000 renovationto start at Altnagelvin

Altnagelvin Hospital's A &E entrance (right).

According to the Trust the planned works are due to commence on Monday, January 5, 2015.

It estimates that the interim refurbishment will cost £338,000.

Speaking about the interim programme, Emergency Department Consultant, Mr James Steele said there will be minimum disruption.

He said: “All of the works have been carefully planned to minimise any disruption to services.

“The current capacity of the service will be maintained throughout the works and when completed will provide enhanced facilities for the public who attend the Emergency Department at Altnagelvin.”

“The works will be carried out in two phases and will be completed in April 2015.

“The existing waiting and reception areas will be reorganised to make better use of the space.

“The works will improve visibility within the department and introduce specific patient flows for patients with minor and major injuries.”

Phase one is due to commence on Monday, January 5, 2015 and conclude in late February 2015.

According to the Western Trust this phase will see the current waiting and reception areas being reconfigured. Phase two will commence immediately on completion of phase one and involves the refurbishment of the existing paediatrics unit to provide dedicated minors and paediatrics units.

Access to the Emergency Department will be maintained during the works, with the existing paediatric unit being utilised as a temporary waiting area during phase one and will be signposted from the existing entrance.

Further information on the proposed refurbishment is available via the Western Trust website www.westerntrust.hscni.net and through the Western Trust’s social media channels.