June Update #2 - Internal and external supporting walls installed
The team on-site has completed the installation of refurbished and reclaimed brickwork to create new internal and external walls for the facility. This is a fantastic achievement and ahead of schedule.
There is still much to do - returning the roof with replaced panels is the next major stage. Ring beaming has been installed this weekend to provide reinforcement of the load bearing walls and support the roof structure.
Improvements to the facility
Whilst the overall facility externally remains unchanged in size, internally the local architects have created a floor plan that takes advantage of the large size of the original building.
Originally the facility had a labour room, delivery room and a large open ward with minimal storage.
The new layout has more dedicated spaces, including internal bathrooms (previously an external outhouse was used), secure storage. It includes delivery, labour and a recover ward that focus on sanitation, privacy and comfort for mothers and children alike.
The team have also made provision for larger windows to bring more natural light into the facility. Previously the ward windows were very narrow.
Basement Level - Retaining Wall & additional rooms
Previously, the facility sat on a steep slope, the slap on top of decades-old compacted soil. By re-compacting and reusing old (but structurally sound) brickwork, the team have been able to create 4 additional storage rooms for equipment, and potentially overflow accommodation for midwives and allied clinicians.