STEP-UP, STEP-DOWN MENTAL HEALTH FACILITY —
GERALDTON
49. Hon MARTIN ALDRIDGE to the parliamentary secretary
representing the Minister for Health:
I refer to the $5.93 million
business case for the Geraldton community mental health step-up, step-down
facility.
(1) For what
reason have the sites at lots 2469 and 2470 Quarry Street, Geraldton, identified
in the business case, not progressed?
(2) What is the
land-use zoning for the former sobering-up centre site chosen by the government
on Larkin Street, Geraldton?
(3) Will the
buildings on the site be demolished or form part of the redevelopment?
(4) Given the
light industrial area in which the former sobering-up centre site is located,
is the minister satisfied that the site will offer community-based care in
proximity to services such as public transport and supermarkets, or access to
medical services such as a GP?
Hon ALANNA
CLOHESY replied:
I thank the honourable member for
some notice of the question.
(1) The sites at
lots 2469 and 2470 Quarry Street, Geraldton, were initially identified as
potential land options. Following further investigation and consultation with
the Department of Communities, it was found that the former land options have
had multiple native title claims, which were likely to take several or more
years of negotiation.
(2) The land
zoning is service commercial. The City of Greater Geraldton has been consulted
and is supportive of using the site for a step-up, step-down service.
(3) Design
options regarding the buildings on site are currently being considered,
including whether the buildings are demolished or redeveloped.
(4) Yes. Whilst
the site is located on the edge of a light industrial estate, it is adjacent to
residential dwellings and community facilities, and therefore retains a residential–community
feel. The location is also a short distance from community services, including
shops and recreation facilities.