St James’s site granted planning permission for new children’s hospital
By Echo Reporter
A site at St James's Hopital has been granted planning permission for the long-awaited National Children's Hospital, with work expected to begin in the summer.
The decision by An Bord Pleanála to grant planning permission for the new children’s hospital on a campus shared with St. James’s Hospital and the Paediatric OPD and Urgent Care Centres at Tallaght and Connolly Hospital was warmly and widely welcomed today by most, although some have said a site located nearer the M50 would be a better option with better access for patients and their families.
The project is set to cost in the region of €650 million, is expected to be completed by 2019, and when finished will have 384 inpatient beds. a rooftop garden and accommodation for parents.
The Children’s Hospital Group and the project developers, the National Paediatric Development Board, outlined the positive impact that this decision will have on future services for generations of young people in Ireland.
Speaking this morning Eilísh Hardiman, CEO, the Children’s Hospital Group said: “This truly is a watershed day for children, young people and their families. Today’s decision will positively transform how paediatric services are delivered for children and young people here in Ireland.
“These buildings are a significant catalyst for how the new national model of care will be delivered.”
Meanwhile acting Minister for Health Leo Varadkar TD said; “This is fantastic news for all the children of Ireland – it will produce a state of the art hospital of which everyone can be proud.”
