The $1.5 billion Queensland Children’s Hospital (QCH) development has reached a major milestone, after the building’s exterior structure was completed this week.
Attending a ceremony for the QCH yesterday (March 26), state health minister Lawrence Springborg said construction works will now focus on the internal fit-out of the hospital – a project that could provide opportunities for apprenticeships in Brisbane.
The new facility, which will combine the Royal Children’s Hospital and Mater Children’s Hospital, will feature 359 beds and a range of specialist services including a state-of-the-art paediatric health care centre.
Mr Springborg said over the coming months contractors would work on completing the building’s interior, which includes 3,500 rooms and 80,000 square metres of floor space.
“The project is part of a statewide strategy for children’s health directed by its own hospital and Health Service Board. There will be new clinics to treat obesity, pain and allergies and a brand new renal unit,” the minister explained.
“There will be more emergency department treatment areas and expanded capacity across departments.”
As part of the project, a new Academic and Research Facility, an energy plant, and renovated accommodation for the Children’s Health Foundation will also be developed.
