Published: Friday, 26th September, 2008 12:00pm

Full steam ahead soon for Tullamore private hospital

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The name of the new operator for John Flanagan Developments" Wellwood Health Park on the outskirts of Tullamore could be revealed in as little as four weeks, according to Joint Managing Director of John Flanagan Developments Dominic Doheny.

Speaking to the Offaly Independent yesterday, Mr Doheny said his company has signed a confidentiality agreement with a new operator, after talks with the original preferred bidder the Mater Private failed. He said things are at 'an advanced stage' and revealed news of the new operator could be unveiled in just a month"s time.

Construction on the project began late last year, but stopped last March. Mr Doheny said this week construction is set to recommence after Christmas and Phase One of the healthcare park should be completed by late 2009 or March 2010 latest.

What"s planned

Erection of an acute hospital and primary care centre over a total of five floors, comprising 21,000 square-metre floor area for four operating theatres, recovery rooms and sterile service facilities.

Also planned are ambulatory day surgery facilities, phlebotomy, two wards of 30 bed spaces each, ten consultant suites, accommodation for ten general practitioners and seven community-based specialists clinics, offices, medical daycare and diagnostic facilities, medical laboratory, rehab centre with hydrotherapy facilities and gym.

Further planned were a minor injuries unit, mortuary, general storage facilities, pharmacy, restaurant and retail unit.