Upgrades for Portarlington health clinic

A $2 million expansion could see Portarlington’s health clinic undergo major work to enhance the accessibility of the coastal facility.

Bellarine Community Health are awaiting final approval for stage two of the redevelopments to the Fenwick Street medical and allied health clinic.

“The next stage of development focuses on the northern section of the building which is 37 years old and in need of an upgrade,” Laureen Deale said on behalf of BCH.

“This will deliver modern, multi-purpose facilities that will cater for a wide variety of uses in an attractive and environmentally responsible building.”

Following on from major works in 2018, the proposal features new waiting and consulting rooms as well as amenities, including disabled toilets and a kitchen.

Planning applications were submitted to the City in late July but are now one step closer to production with a final decision expected by mid-December.

“The Town Planner has indicated to us that he is supportive of the application,” Ms Deale said.

“The building footprint remains essentially the same, yet the interior has been designed to provide more usable space.”

The new building will welcome further trade to the area with the development of an Op shop created for the Portarlington Ladies Auxiliary.

Minor enhancements will be made to existing spaces including improved accessibility along Fenwick Street and an open-plan space to accommodate for more patients.

“The building will deliver improved consulting and community spaces allowing current services and programs to be delivered more efficiently and with greater flexibility,” Ms Deale said.

The refurbishments are expected to bring a more contemporary look to the outdated 1978 building.

“It will make a significant contribution to the character of the Portarlington town centre,” she said.

The project is expected to commence in early 2021.