Clare Fine Gael TD Joe Cooney has received confirmation that the new Ambulance Base for Kilrush has progressed to the design stage, with a design team now appointed by HSE Mid-West Estates.
The update follows confirmation from the HSE that the project has received approval to proceed to design through its national governance process.
Stage 1 design work is currently under way and is expected to conclude by the end of February 2027, subject to the resolution of outstanding design and stakeholder inputs.
Welcoming the progress, Deputy Cooney said, “This is an important step forward for a project that has been needed in West Clare for a long time.
“The existing Ambulance Base, located on the grounds of Kilrush Nursing Home, is not fit for purpose. Ambulance crews deserve modern facilities that allow them to carry out their work effectively and provide the best possible service to people across West Clare.
“I have continued to raise this issue with the National Ambulance Service and the HSE, and I am pleased that the project has now secured approval to move into the design stage and that a design team has been appointed.”
Deputy Cooney said the HSE is also examining options to support the efficient delivery of the project, including preliminary engagement with Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) contractors to assess whether the proposed design could be suitable for this approach.
“While no decision has been made on the construction or delivery method, it is encouraging that the HSE is examining options that could help progress the project efficiently. However, I also believe we should be considering whether a standardised modular design would speed up the planning and design process for facilities like this. I note another state body, Fáilte Ireland, have done this with their beach amenities, and of course most of our school buildings and council houses in the past were developed using standardised design templates.
“However, the priority must be to maintain momentum and ensure that the necessary approvals, procurement and funding arrangements are progressed without unnecessary delay.”
The HSE has indicated that a further update will be available as the Stage 1 design approaches completion, when delivery options and the associated programme can be considered in greater detail.
Deputy Cooney added, “There is still work to be done, including completion of the appraisal process and securing the necessary approvals and funding.
“I will continue to engage with the HSE and the National Ambulance Service to ensure this project moves through the remaining stages and that West Clare gets the modern ambulance facilities it needs.”