The site for the new 95 Bed Community Nursing Unit development is located on the lands of the existing St. Colman’s Hospital, which is on the north western fringe of the rural town of Rathdrum in County Wicklow. The existing hospital currently caters for residents from the vicinity and surrounding county of Wicklow. The project consists of a new build multi-storey extension to the hospital of 6,623m², refurbishment and upgrade of the existing hospital of 2,561m² and demolition of 2,077m² (gross internal floor areas) on the site of 7.48 hectares.
The site is located on the western slopes of the valley and as a result there is a significant difference in level, of 20 to 25m, from the north western most point to the boundary wall along Union Lane. This slope provides for a positive aspect and vista of the landscape to the north and east in particular. Views of the Stump of the Castle and onwards towards the Vale of Clara to the north and Glasnarget North, Carrick Mountain and Glasnarget South to the east, all contribute to the beauty of this site.
