When establishing a new surgery or extending/refurbishing an existing practice, you will generally need to obtain approvals from your local authority that has jurisdiction over planning and building issues in the area.
Your designer/architect is the best person to liaise with the relevant authorities as they should be knowledgeable and experienced in doing so. An understanding of the approval process and the various statutory requirements form the basis for any project to run smoothly.
Firstly, you will need to confirm that healthcare premises would be permitted under the zoning or classification of the site. If you find the location does not currently hold approval for healthcare usage, you will need to make an application for approval to be obtained.
If you are purchasing or leasing new premises, it could be prudent that you include a condition in the sale or lease contract making it void if your application is not approved.
Regulatory bodies are generally concerned with issues such as:
- Appropriate usage within zoning or context of the area;
- External presentation of any building/signage and/or landscaping;
- Additional loads to parking in the area;
- Access on and off adjacent traffic routes;
- Any adverse environmental effects created such as noise, odours, etc;
- Changes to existing utility services;
- Effects on neighbouring properties (privacy, natural light, drainage or views); and
- Waste management.
If you are considering a new building, you will need to consider such issues as building height, site coverage, floor space ratios, setbacks, car parking and vehicular access and egress.
Other permits/approvals may be required before construction can begin, depending upon the extent of new work and the total area. Public bodies or private certifiers are generally involved throughout the construction process.
Approvals are generally conditional upon your surgery’s compliance with the Building Code of Australia and applicable Australian Standards. These codes and standards ensure safety in design and construction.
For More Information on Part 4 - Dealing With Local Councils >>
