Designs released for Swan Hill ED redevelopment

The Victorian Health Building Authority (VHBA) has unveiled the first designs for the $48.7 million redevelopment of the Swan Hill District Health emergency department.

Designed by Silver Thomas Hanley, the artist impressions reveal a first look at the new emergency department building and clinical spaces.

The building and clinical spaces have been carefully considered to create a welcoming atmosphere for patients and families, according to VHBA. They will also provide a contemporary and efficient working environment for hospital staff.

The designs have been developed with the people who will be using the facility the most, including staff, with information gathered during workshops influencing the designs.

The redevelopment will replace the outdated emergency department and add a four-bed short-stay unit, an isolation room and a behavioural assessment room, said VHBA. This is said to support the privacy of patients and ensure the hospital can meet the current and future health needs of the local community.

The project will also add new large waiting areas so people can access emergency care more quickly in a welcoming environment. Once complete, the new emergency department is set to more than double the points of care.

The redevelopment is being delivered in partnership with the federal government, which is contributing $30 million towards the project expected to complete in 2025. Early works are on track to begin in the second half of 2022.