A development application for a two-storey world-class medical centre in Guy Street with conditions was unanimously agreed to at Federation Council’s monthly meeting on May 19.
Believed to be close to a $4 million comprehensive medical and allied health facility, it is to be built on the site of the old nurses home which was demolished, with council approval, in April.
The proposed development will provide for additional medical and allied health services to the Corowa community and surrounding area, and will provide employment for 25 full-time staff.
Council’s approval for the new facility is subject to 35 conditions. The applicant, Healthcare Projects Australia, requested a variation to the prescribed parking requirements under Corowa Development Control Plan to reduce the number of onsite car parking spaces from 72 to 37, a shortfall of 35 spaces.
Council staff met with the developer on May 10 to discuss the impact of the 46% variation in the vicinity of the development - the hospital, access for emergency vehicles, a nearby business and the amenity of the surrounding residential area.
“As part of the discussion it was resolved to prepare a planning agreement with the focus of the works of the agreement to improve the health and wellbeing of the community,” council’s director development and environmental services Susan Appleyard said.
“It was also agreed that a drop-off zone within Guy Street Road Reserve be defined for the front of 53-55 Guy Street between the hours of 8.00am and 6.00pm Monday to Friday and 9.00am to 3.00pm Saturdays.
“The operation of the facility will have impact on the amenity of the adjoining residential areas during operating hours and the developer has made every endeavour to limit this impact. The introduction of a drop-off area will improve the impact on the amenity.”
Cr Paul Miegel expressed his strong support for the development application, which, at his suggestion, includes required improvement to on-street parking in the vicinity of the development and the medical precinct with various works to be undertaken.
“I believe that Corowa should be rightly proud, and very thankful for the range of services that are currently available which would be the envy of many other centres of a similar size,” he said.
“We have recently heard the issues facing many other communities in our region, as part of the NSW Legislative Council inquiry into rural health.
“The proposal to increase medical services in Corowa is another boost for our community and shows confidence by the proponent, in the town and the broader community.
“Federation Council has, at significant cost, already provided support to the establishment of a medical practice at Oaklands and continues to support the medical practice at Urana.”
Cr Fred Longmire referred to the importance of the drop-off zone. “It’s so necessary - all the big hospitals in Melbourne have it. If there is congestion, there can be alternatives. It is an excellent idea.”
Mayor Pat Bourke said the town’s police has offered to patrol the location and then described the project. “It’s very, very exciting to say the least,” he said.
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