Amended approval a big step forward for Mossman facility
MOSSMAN
THE Douglas Shire Council’s decision to approve amended plans for the Mossman Aged Care complex being built on Johnston Rd by The Salvation Army Aged Care Plus, has been greeted enthusiastically from all quarters of the community.
At Monday’s open session of Council, the amended plans detailing the size of the rooms and design of the complex were approved. It was agreed they meet the Design Guidelines set out in a legal agreement between Council and The Salvation Army regarding the provision of the land at no charge.
Steven Ball, Executive Manager Capital Projects and Property Management for Aged Care Plus, said the approval is a big step forward.
“We are now one step closer to providing the first aged care centre in Mossman, and we’re confident the refined design better meets the needs of older Australians in the community.
“The design was updated with our future residents in mind, ensuring the Centre is best equipped for their comfort, safety and enjoyment,” he said.
Mayor Julia Leu said the decision will finally see the go-ahead of this much-needed community facility.
“My congratulations to the Mossman District Nursing Home committee whose volunteers have tirelessly lobbied and fundraised for more than 22 years to achieve this outcome,” she said.
Aged Care Plus refined the original design plans for the development of the 42-bed residential aged care centre with a focus on care for residents, the environment and lifestyle.
The design now boasts a large Chapel, which will double as a leisure and activities centre, a separate service corridor for staff to minimise impact on residents and secure light filled walkways between buildings, ensuring access to all areas of the Centre in the event of tropical weather conditions.
Council has invested significantly in this project, allocating funding in the first budget of the newly formed Council to supporting the development of a business case; providing additional Council funding and resources; applying for and securing over $500,000 funding under the State Government’s Building our Regions grant round for the enabling infrastructure; and waiving the infrastructure fees of approximately $250,000. Council will transfer the Council-owned land to The Salvation Army when the building is complete.
Deputy Mayor Abigail Noli said the detail outlined in the latest plans submitted by The Salvation Army showed the development would create a welcoming space for residents.
“Thought has been put into the outdoor area and the conceptual plans have captured the ‘home in a garden’ idea, connecting inside and outside for residents,” Cr Noli said.
The construction of the enabling infrastructure is now complete and construction of the main facility is expected to be completed next year.
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