Infectious Diseases Block to be Built

Sun (Auckland), Volume II, Issue 421, 1 August 1928, Page 1

Infectious Diseases Block to be Built

DR. VALINTINE’S SANCTION NO REDUCTION IN ESTIMATE The Director-General of Health, Dr. T. H. A. Valintine, has now sanctioned the erection of an infectious diseases block at the Auckland Public Hospital. Approval was given after a conference yesterday between Dr. Valintine and Mr. W. Wallace, chairman of the Hospital Board. There had been a difference of opinion between Dr. Valintine and the Hospital Board on the question of the site of the proposed block, but as a result of yesterday’s negotiations, the buildings will be erected in accordance with the Hospital Board’s original scheme. The plans already prepared by the architects have been adopted, and it is expected that the buildings will be completed in 12 months’ time. Mr. Wallace, in announcing the result of the conference, said Dr. Valintine would like to see the estimated cost of £33.500 reduced, but the policy of the board was not to economise at the expense of the general efficiency of the building. The buildings will be erected on a site in the hospital grounds, and will be close enough to the main block to come effectively under its administration, but far enough away to prevent any possibility of infection. There will be accommodation for 53 patients, exclusive of accommodation that will be available on the balconies. The board has fully considered the question of finance, and it is probable that debentures at s?s per cent, for 21 years will be issued. In addition a £1 for £1 Government subsidy will be available.