Site identified for new €50m Tipperary nursing home after closure fears
A site has been identified for a new €50million community nursing unit in north Tipperary, marking another major step towards securing its long-term future.
The Dean Maxwell Home in Roscrea had previously faced an uncertain future, but confirmation came in February of this year that a new community nursing unit would be delivered in the town, providing at least 50 bed spaces.
The future of the facility was under threat as the existing building didn’t meet modern building standards.
It has now emerged that the HSE has found a suitable site for the new unit, and is now engaging in a legal process with the seller.
As soon as the legal process is complete, the next step is for the HSE to appoint a design team and progress the detailed design, planning and delivery of the new facility.
The new unit will be located on land adjacent to the existing Dean Maxwell Home, and will have space for 52 residents.
There will be a mix of 40 long and short stay beds, a 10-bed dementia unit, and a two-bedroom palliative care unit under the plans.
The estimated cost of delivering the project will be €50million, and it is understood that the current Dean Maxwell Home will be converted into a modern day care centre once it relocates next door.
The chosen site was one of five sites in Roscrea that were explored for the new community nursing unit, with just two being deemed as suitable.
Independent TD for north Tipperary Michael Lowry welcomed the news after a long campaign to ensure the facility stayed in Roscrea.
“This is brilliant news for Roscrea and its people. It reverses the injustice of previous decisions and erases the hurt felt by the entire community of Roscrea,” he said.
“The existing Dean Maxwell Home will continue to function at full capacity until the new unit is in place.
“I am delighted that my decision to prioritise the needs of elderly care for the people of Roscrea has been rewarded with success. I am particularly pleased for Cllr Shane Lee and all those who over many years campaigned for Dean Maxwell.
“The community of Roscrea were united, strong and resilient. I am glad to be in a position to answer their call and progress this project,” Deputy Lowry added.