Ipswich CBD’s journey as a developing health precinct continues with approval given for a five-storey medical centre in Pring Street.
The centre is planned for 11 Pring Street on a block opposite St Andrew’s Ipswich Private Hospital.
A town planning report lodged with Ipswich City Council details a two-stage approach.
“Stage one will consist of the ground storey car park and storeys one, two plus roof capping and will include a total of 1,412 square metres of gross floor area,” the application states.
“Stage two consists of storeys three, four plus roof capping and will contain a total of 1,146 square metres of gross floor area.”
The centre would be in the Ipswich Planning Scheme CBD – Medical Services Zone which aims to attract developments that complement St Andrews Private Hospital and the Ipswich Hospital.
“The medical centre will be used for medical offices and consulting rooms only, it will not be used for any procedures or ‘day surgery’ uses,” the application states.
The exact tenancy makeup has not been confirmed, however health services along the lines of a podiatrist, chiropractor, GP clinic, optometrist and pathologist, to name a few, would be consistent with the approval.
Twenty-four car parks will be created as part of the development.
“The proposed medical centre will gain direct access off Pring Street in the south east corner of the premises,” the application states.
“All 24 car parks (will be) delivered during stage one of the project.”
The presence of health providers in the CBD is expected to grow significantly in the coming decade.
Last year, Ipswich City Council entered into an agreement that will allow West Moreton Hospital to expand into council administration buildings in South Street.
Council plans to progressively vacate the buildings as it completes a new administration centre and library as part of the Ipswich mall redevelopment.
A medical centre has been approved for 11 Pring Street.
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