Construction Starts on Mercy Place Montrose Redevelopment

Works have commenced for the redevelopment of Mercy Place Montrose in Melbourne’s east which will expand on Mercy Health’s 18-year history caring for the local community. 

The new building is being constructed in two stages and will be Mercy Health’s second residential aged care home to be purpose built in the form of small community households.

The small community household concept is inspired by Mercy Health's model of care which was developed following extensive review of international best practice for the care of elderly people, especially those living with dementia. The concept marries these findings with our Christian beliefs about the importance of meaningful relationships. The end result is houses designed for up to eight residents living together, each with their own room and ensuite, who are supported by dedicated staff to live meaningful and full lives. The houses contain a fully functioning kitchen and laundry along with a lounge, dining area and outdoor garden space.

Mercy Health Group Chief Executive Officer Stephen Cornelissen said the first stage of the Mercy Place Montrose redevelopment will cater for 90 residents in 12 small households.

“It has taken six-years for us to reach this point because it was crucial that we got the design of the home right without compromising the local environment and setting,” Adjunct Professor Cornelissen explained.

“The new site will provide residents with more space per person than any of our other aged care homes.

“This extra space combined with the small community household design will create a warm and welcoming environment which we hope residents will be proud to call home.

“Residents will also be able to get up and go to bed when they like, and with support get involved in household activities such as cooking, laundry and gardening just like they would at home if they wish.”

Mercy Place Montrose is being built by Hutchinson Builders and is expected to be completed by March 2019. Stage two of the redevelopment will cater for an additional 32 residents and is currently in the design phase.

Disruption to the daily life of current residents will be minimal during construction with builders liaising with aged care staff at every step of the process.

A tree protection zone has been put in place between the new home and Mt Dandenong Tourist Road to protect significant native trees during construction.

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