CHIEF Minister Katy Gallagher says construction of a new Secure Mental Health Unit is one step closer following the announcement that Richard Crookes Construction Pty Ltd has been appointed as the head contractor for the project.

“The Secure Mental Health Unit is the missing part of the mental health network in the ACT and it is great to see that work on the unit is almost set to begin with the appointment of Richard Crookes Construction to lead the construction phase of the project,” Katy said.

“I am also pleased to report that there was a good level of engagement as part of the consultation phase on the detailed sketch plans which have now been finalised to make way for the construction phase to begin. During the consultation period a community information session was held, which attracted an audience of just under 40 people. Feedback on the detailed sketch plans was received through 12 formal submissions and comments at the public information session.”

The Legislative Assembly recently passed the Planning and Development (Symonston Mental Health Facility) Amendment Act in June which creates laws to ensure the quickest possible delivery timeframe for the project.

“ACT Health submitted a Development Application to the independent ACT Planning Authority in August, and when it is approved, Richard Crookes Construction will proceed with demolition of the former Quamby facility,” said the Chief Minister.

To farewell the former Quamby facility, and prepare the site for its next stage, members of the ACT’s Ngunnawal community held a traditional Aboriginal Smoking Ceremony in September.

“The Government will continue to stay engaged with the community surrounding the Secure Mental Health Unit site and will be sending out the latest newsletter in coming weeks,” the Chief Minister said.

A report on the outcomes of community consultation on the design of the Secure Mental Health Unit is available on the ACT Government’s Time to Talk website and also the ACT Health website.