REDLAND Hospital's new car park will now be seven levels, not five as previously planned, with more than 1000 car parks once completed.
Brisbane company, Woollam Constructions has started works on the new $50.5 million multi-level car park, which is expected to be completed in mid-2022.
Turning the first sod of the project, Redlands MP Kim Richards said while originally five levels and 713 car parks were planned, through the tender process an additional two levels were secured.
"That means we'll deliver more car parks for patients, visitors and staff, which will boost parking capacity as the hospital expands.
"This milestone is great news for the construction industry, with the project creating up to 74 jobs," she said.
Capalaba MP Don Brown said the car park would be built behind the existing hospital buildings with a dedicated access road on Weippin Street and would include safety and active transport features.
"The car park will include lighting, CCTV and duress points on each level, as well as end-of-trip facilities including bike spaces, showers and lockers," Mr Brown said.
Patients, visitors and staff will continue to be able to access parking on and around the Redland Hospital campus while construction of the car park is underway.
Oodgeroo MP Mark Robinson said the project was finally happening after 12 years of talk from the Bligh and Palaszczuk governments.
"This much-welcomed project should save up to 10 minutes parking and walking time for Redlands patients trying to get into hospital," he said.
The cost for car parking will be finalised in the lead up to the opening of the multi-level car park. Concessions will be available for eligible patients, carers and hospital staff.
The project will be delivered thanks to a $34.5 million investment by the Queensland government and a $16 million contribution from the federal government.
Bowman MP Andrew Laming congratulated the state government on getting the car park scheduled for completion in 2022.
"Now I urge state Labor, again, to continue the momentum and commence clinical upgrades that affect the health outcomes of Redlanders.
"Federally funded back in 2018, there is $30 million waiting for a much needed Redland Hospital expansion," he said.
Angela Kelly
Redland City Bulletin senior journalist covering politics, community issues and human interest stories. South African living the dream in Australia.
Redland City Bulletin senior journalist covering politics, community issues and human interest stories. South African living the dream in Australia.
