The newly released Review of Environmental Factors states works are set to be carried out in one stage from mid-2026. Image: Supplied.
New beds, a courtyard and another parking spot are on the cards for a Bombala facility, with work to finalise the design ongoing.
Under a $40 million funding commitment, a new residential aged care wing will be built at the Bombala Multipurpose Service, increasing its capacity to 30 beds.
The proposal features an elevated extension, along with new outdoor areas designed to support wellbeing and connection to Country.
Member for Monaro Steve Whan said newly-released artist’s impressions meant the community could see how their input had informed the project designs.
“The project will attract key workers to the area to enable the continued provision of high-quality health care and showcase Bombala as an example of how aging-in-place can operate in rural NSW,” he said.
An artist’s impression showing the design from the Old Hospital Building. Image: Supplied.
The expansion will also include a linkway connecting the new facility to the existing MPS, while staff accommodation options are also being explored.
A Review of Environmental Factors (REF) for the 20-bed expansion has also been released for feedback.
The draft document states the design is considered suitable for the street, pointing to its setback position that is similar to the existing MPS facility.
“Overall, the building extension and works to at-grade carparks are consistent with the existing visual character and will not detract from the streetscape.
“Accordingly, visual impacts are considered appropriate and will not result in adverse visual amenity impacts.”
If given the green light, the expansion will bring more support services (specifically a new kitchen and laundry), a new courtyard, reconfigured at-grade parking and associated building services infrastructure works.
The REF also found that there will be “temporary impacts” to Bombala’s road network during construction.
“[The] number of light and heavy vehicles are expected to be minor and would not cause significant disruption given the spare capacity in the local street network,” it states.
Construction is expected to generate an additional 48 trips per day, with workers able to park on-site.
The proposal will also see an extra carparking space (in the site’s main carpark) to bring its capacity to 19.
Increased demand for public parking is expected to be accommodated through the staff carpark and parking area located to the north of Joseph Street.
Existing vehicular access off Wellington Street is set to remain.
“There is sufficient existing spare on-site capacity to accommodate the proposal’s increased carpark demands within the main carpark or on Joseph Street, and within the staff carpark,” the document states.
An artist’s impression, showing the design from Wellington Street. Image: Supplied.
It will see the removal of 341 trees (clearing the way for the development and for bushfire protection), with these to be replaced.
Several native bird species were seen using exotic trees on the site as foraging habitat, but the REF states there is “extensive” nearby habitat that could replace the trees.
Also, given the “relatively contemporary” age of the existing Bombala MPS, the detection of asbestos or other hazardous materials is considered low.
Federal Member for Eden-Monaro Kristy McBain said the project represented an increase in care facilities in the region.
“This is an exciting step in the Bombala Multi-Purpose Service expansion, giving the community a firsthand look at the design of this modern purpose-built facility.
“This expansion will significantly boost access to high-quality aged care services in Bombala, benefiting residents and patients, as well as their families and carers.”
Bombala and surrounding communities will have opportunities to learn more and provide further feedback at upcoming sessions:
- Drop-in information stall: 20 April, 3 to 6 pm outside Bombala IGA on Maybe Street
- Online community presentation and Q&A: 21 April, 6 to 7 pm (registration essential).
A timeline for construction is set to be confirmed following planning determination and the appointment of a building contractor, with works expected to start later this year.
According to the draft REF, the project should be finished by mid-2027.
The NSW and Australian governments have jointly committed $40 million to deliver the project.
For more information, visit the NSW Government’s website or email [email protected].
People can have their say on the Review of Environmental Factors and technical documents until 11:59 pm on 8 May via the Health Infrastructure website.
