The HSE has been instructed to show its proposals for an Enhanced Community Care Hub in Knocknacarra will not interfere with overflying aircraft.

The organisation has sought permission to construct the ‘integrated care hub’ in the former Aviva Insurance building at Galway West Business Park, a building for which, as previously revealed by the Galway City Tribune, the HSE paid €11.85 million – €1.35 million over the market value.

In a request for further information, city planners have sought that the HSE engage with its own ‘Medical and Special Operations Section’ at University Hospital Galway (UHG) in addition to the IAA, “reviewing any glint and glare and impact on aviation receptors such as the hospital helipad and aircraft operators, arising from the development”.

City Hall is seeking a report on this consultation process and the acceptance of any recommended alterations “to the proposed solar panel array” which is to be mounted on the roof.

In addition, the Council has requested further information on the impact of the proposed pedestrian access to the facility “which would impact upon the proposed Bóthar Stiofán cycle network”.

The planners note that the road safety audit included as part of the application includes for dropped kerbs and tactile paving at Bóthar Stiofán, which they say would have an impact on the cycle network.

It is recommended that the HSE consult with the Council’s Transport and Infrastructure Department, and its Active Travel team, “to revise/amend this element of the proposed development”.

An application for planning permission was submitted by MKO on behalf of the HSE in November, seeking a change of use for the building from specialist office use to use as an “enhanced community care (ECC) hub and primary care centre (PCC)” for Knocknacarra and Salthill.

Pictured: The former Aviva building in Knocknacarra is earmarked for a Community Care Hub.