Cooma is being given its first look at the design of 12 key worker accommodation units which will be installed on the hospital site as part of the Key Worker Accommodation (KWA) Program.
The artist’s impression of the exterior design has been released along with details of a key worker accommodation prototype unit which was recently completed off-site.
The units will support heath care workers looking to establish themselves in the Cooma community by providing accommodation close to work, which is a key factor in attracting and retaining health workers at rural and regional hospitals.
The modern and self-contained units will be fully furnished and equipped with all the necessities including kitchens, bedrooms, ensuite bathrooms, living and outdoor areas.
Consultation with clinicians during the planning and design process has been used to inform the prototype and design of the accommodation.
Sustainability has also been considered in the design of the units, which will be fully electric and solar ready, with fixtures and fittings selected to provide efficiency for both water and energy use.
Construction of the Cooma units will commence off-site shortly, with delivery and on-site installation on the hospital site expected to start later this year. The accommodation is expected to become available to key workers in late 2024.
Prototype shows design
The builders, Hutchinsons has developed a prototype mock-up of one of the units, bringing the design to life.
In March 2024, the project team and Local Health District representatives had the opportunity to walk through the prototype, both physically and virtually, providing feedback on its functionality and any necessary changes to improve the design before the units are built and delivered to hospital sites in rural and regional NSW, including Cooma Hill.
About the Key Worker Accommodation Program
The NSW Government is investing $45.3 million to deliver modern accommodation for health workers in three rural health districts: Far West, Murrumbidgee and Southern NSW.
Program benefits:
- Attract more health workers to rural and regional hospitals
- New, fit for purpose, self-contained accommodation
- Fully furnished, providing a safe and comfortable environment
- Spacious units with communal spaces and landscaping
- Located on hospital grounds
- Establish a community within a community allowing spaces for staff to connect with each other.