A proposed nursing home in Mahone Bay appears to have regained new life.
McLeod Group Health Services Limited submitted a revised design and costing for their replacement of the Mahone Nursing Home to the Nova Scotia Department of Health and Wellness.
CEO Ramsay Duff says they recently received provincial support and hope to proceed with a development agreement with the Town of Mahone Bay.
“Folks who would be familiar with the nursing home would know that it is quite an old structure, it does need to be replaced. We’re very much looking forward to providing a modern facility in the community for the residents.”
The proposed facility has been on the table or in discussion since 2016.
A public information meeting is required before a development agreement is signed, and that is scheduled for August 21 at 7 p.m at the Mahone Bay Fire Hall.
The proposed nursing home is estimated to cost between $34 to $40-million and would be located in the 200 block of Main Street.
“It will be about a two year build from the point of which we receive approval from the Town of Mahone Bay. This is an important step for us. We still are awaiting the final approval from the Department of Health but this is an exciting progression for us.”
The mayor of Mahone Bay says he is hopeful and optimistic that things will proceed smoothly and construction can begin this fall.
The current facility is over 50 years-old and has 61 beds while the proposed home would have 96 beds.
David Devenne says that is an increase they can’t ignore.
“More opportunity to accommodate people who are ill, or who are elderly and cannot care for themselves. It means there is more opportunities for employment for people in the field.”
Devenne says the update is welcome news for the town and feels the proposed state-of-the-art facility is sorely needed.
