West Moreton Health marked a significant milestone in its plans for the future of Ipswich Hospital when a bridge linking the old to the new was craned into place.

The pedestrian footbridge linking Ipswich Hospital Tower Block Level 6 and the new Mental Health Acute Inpatient Services Building was lifted into place at the end of November.

Interior works are still being conducted on the 48-metre bridge, which crosses Chelmsford Avenue, with the link expected to be in use by mid-next year.

Project Director Jenny Mair said it was exciting to see the bridge lifted into place as it was a step toward future service delivery at Ipswich Hospital.

“The Mental Health Acute Inpatient Services Building was co-designed by consumers and clinicians and is a critical part of West Moreton Health’s plans to provide quality health care closer to home. This bridge will provide staff and consumers with safe, easy access from the new building to Ipswich Hospital’s Tower Block,” she said.

Ms Mair thanked everyone involved in the project.

“This truly was a team effort and I want to thank our contractors BESIX Watpac, who managed the bridge lift with great care and consideration. Although the scheduled road closure was from 24-28 November, BESIX Watpac was able to safely complete the job ahead of program and reopened Chelmsford Avenue early evening on Saturday 26 November. Thank you to all staff and community for your patience and co-operation.”

West Moreton Health Chief Executive Hannah Bloch said not only was the covered bridge a great practical addition to the hospital, it was symbolic of the health service’s aims for the future.

“As part of our commitment to transforming and optimising our care, we are developing new infrastructure, services and models of care. Part of that commitment is providing fit-for-purposes spaces and the new Mental Health Acute Inpatient Services Building is a great example of that,” Ms Bloch said.