This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Deacon breaks new ground at Greenock ambulance site
18/08/1999
Scottish Executive Minister for Health and Community Care Susan Deacon signalled the start of work on a new £1 million ambulance station in Greenock today when she took control of a JCB to perform a ground-breaking ceremony at the new site.
The purpose built ambulance station and vehicle workshop at Cartsburn South will replace the existing station in the town's Murdieston Street.
A total of 18 ambulances and around 40 staff will be based at the new facility which will include offices, a training space, a recreation room, a kitchen and dining area and a vehicle maintenance workshop complete with vehicle lifting hoist.
The new building, which will enjoy easy access to main traffic routes, will also be designed to cater for the increasing number of female ambulance staff.
Speaking at the ground-breaking ceremony today Ms Deacon said:
"This new ambulance station will meet the needs of the people of Greenock well into the next century. It will be a modern, well equipped service with immediate access to major roads and staffed by caring, committed and medically trained ambulance crews.
"It is a demonstration of the Scottish Ambulance Service's determination to improve the quality and speed of the service they provide to the local community and also to improve the working conditions of their staff.
"I share that determination. The Scottish Executive is working hard to ensure high quality, accessible health care services for the people of Scotland where and when they need it.
"I am sure this new initiative in Greenock will help improve the quality and speed of the ambulance service and deliver better patient care for local people."
BACKGROUND
1. The Greenock Station and workshop capital budget inclusive of site, works, fees and equipment and VAT costs is £988,0000.
2. The new station is due to be completed in April 2000 and is expected to be operational by May 2000.
News Release: se0341/99
18 August, 1999