A new 28-bed psychiatric hospital, costing R240 million, is set to be built in Port Shepstone, KwaZulu-Natal.The project, spearheaded by the KZN Departments of Health and Public Works, aims to address critical mental healthcare gaps and stimulate economic growth.The facility will include inpatient and outpatient services, with dedicated male and female wards.

Key project details include collaboration with local municipalities, the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), and the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB).

The project team comprises over 200 professionals, including engineers, architects, and safety officers, ensuring compliance with social facilitation protocols.

The hospital will create over 100 jobs during construction and 228 EPWP opportunities, targeting 60% women, 55% youth, and 3% people with disabilities.The project, expected to take 30 months, includes demolishing old infrastructure and installing essential facilities like a backup generator.KZN MEC Martin Meyer emphasized the project's importance in delivering quality infrastructure and combating unemployment.The initiative underscores government commitment to improving mental healthcare access and fostering local economic development.