Resthaven breaks ground on new site
A $25 million site redevelopment has begun at Resthaven Bellevue Heights with a first sod turning ceremony.
![<p>Resthaven Deputy Board President Ben Sarre, left, and Manager Residential Services Mandy Micallef at Resthaven Bellevue Heights [Source: Supplied]</p>](https://agedcareguide-assets.imgix.net/news/articles/news/articles/21_9_2021-noticeboard-Resthaven.jpg?fm=pjpg&format=auto&w=550&q=65)
Resthaven Deputy Board President Ben Sarre, left, and Manager Residential Services Mandy Micallef at Resthaven Bellevue Heights [Source: Supplied]
Almost 100 residents will benefit from improved amenities at the aged care facility, including some with cognitive impairment who will have access to a purpose built space to support their care.
Other features of the project are the replacement of 32 rooms which were built in the 1970s, more car parks and landscaping on the site of the demolished older rooms, a refurbishment of all other rooms and the demolition of seven independent living units, also from the 70s, to be replaced with an extension to other areas accommodating 12 people.
The auditorium used for entertainment and activities for the residents will be transformed along with the central entry and cafe.
A new staff room, kitchen, laundry, and associated service rooms will also be built and access and egress at the site will be improved, including a separate vehicle exit for safety and better traffic flow.
Resthaven Manager Building and Capital Projects Emmet O’Donovan says while the redevelopment will not increase the number of residents able to live at the site it will provide more for existing residents.
“When the project is finalised, all accommodation will be consolidated under the one roof, making it easier for all residents to access new and improved communal areas and services,” he says.
“The street appeal of the home will be greatly improved, with new fencing, landscaping and a modern rendered front.
“The entrance will include a covered drop off area.
“Much care has been taken to ensure that the new build blends into the current, natural hills environment of Resthaven Bellevue Heights, which is a wonderful feature of the home.”
The communal meeting and social space in the home’s associated retirement village is also being upgraded with a bigger undercover outdoor area and more storage.
The project is expected to be finished in May 2023.
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