A new children’s ward is being planned for Cork University Hospital.
The new paediatric unit will include a new day ward, out patient department and specialist areas for the treatment of cystic fibrosis, diabetes and haematology oncology, including leukemia.
The project will involve the refurbishment and extension of the existing single storey building which is located to the rear of the main hospital and was constructed in the 1970s.
As well as refurbishing the existing premises a new two-storey extension will also be built above it.
A new stairs and lift block will link the children’s ward to the main hospital building at ground and first-floor levels.
The aim of the development is to enhance the existing services and provide for the transfer of paediatric services from the city’s Mercy University Hospital.
It is part of the HSE reconfiguration plan to centralise paediatric services at one site on the grounds of CUH.
The ground floor of the unit will accommodate the existing paediatric in-patient wards, the new haematology oncology unit and a new paediatric triage and assessment unit.
The oncology unit will include treatment rooms and extra isolation rooms.
The first floor will include a new day ward, outpatient department and specialist treatment areas for cystic fibrosis and diabetes.
The second floor will accommodate a new paediatric academic research facility.
The HSE lodged a planning application for the development earlier this month.
A planning decision is expected from Cork City Council in October.