Work to almost double capacity at Lyell McEwin Hospital’s emergency department extension starts

Work to almost double Lyell McEwin Hospital’s emergency department capacity is starting after a short delay blamed on giving priority to coronavirus preparations.

Artist's impression of the $58 million extension of the Lyell McEwin Hospital emergency department. Picture: Supplied

Site works have started on the $58 million expansion of the Lyell McEwin’s emergency department and development of a new mental health short stay unit.

The project will almost double the hospital’s current ED capacity which now has 51 general treatment areas.

Health and Wellbeing Minister Stephen Wade said the work was part of the Government’s $1 billion hospital infrastructure investment.

“The Lyell McEwin ED has been under intense pressure for many years and this investment will ensure it continues to provide first class health service for the people of northern Adelaide,” he said.

The redevelopment will be done in a staged approach to ensure clinical services and the ED can operate throughout the construction period.

The first stage will see temporary reconfiguration of the Oldham Rd carpark area, with a temporary ambulance entry and alterations to the public drop off and carpark to ensure access can remain to the existing ED.

The site works begin as a $7 million extension of the multistorey car park will now open earlier than expected.