Council to scan over plans for new medical facility in Donegal village
The development would provide diagnostic imaging services in Newtowncunningham seven days a week.
Planning permission is being sought for a new private medical diagnostic scanning facility in Newtowncunningham.
Buncrana-based WSR Energy Solutions Limited is seeking to construct the modular medical building at Monfad Business Park.
The proposed development includes a modular medical diagnostic scanning unit, associated car parking, connections to existing surface and foul water drainage infrastructure, and all associated site works.
The proposed facility will provide a dedicated environment for diagnostic medical imaging, accommodating specialist scanning equipment and associated patient-care facilities.
The planning documents state that a unit of this nature would typically include a scanning room, control room, patient preparation area, reception and waiting areas, patient changing facilities, as well as equipment and support areas.
Medical scanning technology is used by healthcare professionals to investigate and diagnose a wide range of conditions, including tumours, fractures, internal injuries, cardiovascular conditions and neurological disorders. Scans can also assist in monitoring illnesses, assessing treatment effectiveness and planning medical procedures.
According to documents submitted as part of the planning application, the facility will cater for a wide range of patients referred for diagnostic imaging by medical professionals. Referrals may come from hospital emergency departments, inpatient wards, outpatient clinics and specialist departments.
It is anticipated that the facility will accommodate a maximum of four patients per hour.
If granted permission, the medical unit will operate seven days a week, from 8am until 8pm, providing access to diagnostic CT imaging throughout the week.
Up to seven staff members are expected to be employed at the facility. The proposed medical staff would comprise one cardiologist, two CT radiographers, one radiology nurse, one medical secretary, one doctor and one part-time radiographer.
The development will also provide 16 car parking spaces, including two designated ambulant parking spaces.
Donegal County Council is due to make a decision on the planning application by the end of the year.