Jolimont-headquartered Cooper & Oxley Builders have been awarded a $2.7 million contract to work on the first phase of the planned upgrade of the Kalgoorlie Hospital.
Health Minister Kim Hames said today construction of phase 1 of the $55.8 million project will start next month, paving the way for the upgrade to be completed on schedule.
"The new palliative care addition to the existing medical ward at the hospital will include three 'home-style' purpose-built rooms for the exclusive use of palliative care patients," he said.
"Located close to car parks, with easy access for visitors, each room will have its own ensuite, private courtyard and fold-out sofa bed allowing family, friends or carers to stay overnight with their loved ones.
"In addition, a separate lounge room will be provided for use by patients and their visitors, as well as a private meeting room."
Mr Hames said that as part of this first phase of building works, two new electrical switch rooms would also be built and new electrical switch gear purchased.
Later phases of the redevelopment of the Kalgoorlie Health Campus would include building new emergency and medical imaging departments and a new hospital entrance.
Kalgoorlie MLA John Bowler said he was pleased to see the project's timely progress.
"I welcome the continued development at Kalgoorlie Hospital and the fact the Minister is making sure there are no delays so the project proceeds swiftly. This will be greatly appreciated by the people of the Goldfields," Mr Bowler said.
The state government's Royalties for Regions program has provided $15.8 million towards the Kalgoorlie Hospital redevelopment project, which is scheduled for completion in 2013.
