2 April 2019

For immediate release

New Christchurch Outpatients building to remain closed until Monday 8 April

Early in the morning on Friday 29 March, steam from a burst heating pipe activated the fire sprinkler system which flooded the new Christchurch Outpatients building. There is significant damage to some walls, floors and ceilings which have to be replaced. Electrical systems were shut down and are progressively being tested and livened up again.

A new valve for the heating pipe is needed and all of the pipework throughout the building will need a hydraulic test before it is back in operation again.

The building will remain closed to the public until at least Monday 8 April – this date will be confirmed later this week when we know how the clean-up and dry-out work is progressing.

Unfortunately, this week we will be postponing up to 700 outpatient appointments each day. In total around 4000 people will have their appointments postponed this week. Anyone whose appointment has to be postponed and rescheduled will be contacted by phone or text.

Arrangements are being made for some urgent appointments for acutely unwell people to go ahead in alternative locations. These are currently being worked through and once confirmed, affected patients will be advised of the alternative location of their appointment.

We apologise for the inconvenience this flood has caused. Our teams are working hard to rebook people whose appointments have had to be rescheduled.

*Please note that existing appointments at Christchurch Women’s, Christchurch Hospital or Burwood Hospital are not affected and are all going ahead.

ENDS

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