New Limerick cancer centre delivered 'on time and within budget' now ready for fit-out

The new ​Limerick ​Cancer ​Centre will be part of the Ballygrennan healthcare campus.

The new Limerick cancer centre has been handed over for fit-out in the first step of private sector investment in what will be the Ballygrennan healthcare campus.

The specialist cancer centre was delivered “on time and within budget” by developer Whitebox, which was selected in 2020 by Limerick City and County Council. It will be operated by a joint venture between the Bon Secours group and UPMC.

The 30,000sq ft centre has now been handed over for equipping to Belgian-listed property investment company Aedfica.

Martin White, chief executive of Whitebox, said: "Completing the build of what is a bespoke oncology centre for the Mid-West region is a milestone for Whitebox and for Ballygrennan.

“Moreover, it is a huge boost in terms of delivery of much-needed cancer care services in Limerick and the wider region. We are proud to hand over this new oncology centre, completed on time and on budget, following an 18-month construction programme.” 

The plans are also part of the new Coonagh to Knockalisheen Northern Distributor Road scheme, a €31m Department of Transport-funded project.

Mr White said: “The project demonstrates that high-quality healthcare infrastructure can be delivered fast and efficiently in the Mid-West.  

“It is also an important moment for Moyross, as it is a tangible example of the quality and scale of investment envisaged through the area's long-term regeneration."

The overall plan is to deliver a site with various health services accessible to Limerick, Clare and North Tipperary, he added. 

Construction of a nursing home is to begin early next year, and planning permission is in place for a primary care centre.  The developer also owns more land in Ballgrennan. 

Whitebox has also begun work in partnership with the council and Clúid to deliver housing for health staff, with 115 new homes in a mix of cost-rental, affordable and social housing.

This project is separate from the HSE and health minister’s plans for University Hospital Limerick. 

A board is expected to oversee construction plans for a site in Raheen, near Limerick City, as well as how health services in Clare and Tipperary can be further supported.

Sean O’Driscoll was appointed in July as chair of the Mid-West Health Planning Board.

He started work in September and is expected to deliver a plan by the end of May next year.