Construction of Highfields Imaging will start within the next fortnight.

The project involves the demolition of a house and construction of a single-storey medical facility and 54-space car park at 14 Highfields Circuit.

A Mid North Coast Diagnostic Imaging spokesperson said they believed the centre would deliver real benefits to the patients of Port Macquarie through the delivery of quality, affordable and accessible radiology services.

“Highfields Imaging is a standalone comprehensive imaging facility, a culmination of existing imaging site consolidation within the region and allowing for future growth along with the introduction of PET/CT services to the Mid-North Coast,” the spokesperson said.

The spokesperson said they would be building a comprehensive diagnostic imaging facility equipped with world-class technology including ultrasound, high-end CT, 3T MRI, digital X-ray and OPG, digital screening, nuclear medicine, bone densitometry and importantly PET/CT which would be an enormous benefit for oncology patients undergoing treatment.

The Northern Joint Regional Planning Panel conditionally approved the development.

Panel chairman Garry West said the proposal had been approved on condition the western side setback of the facility be increased from one metre to 1.3 metres.

“The setback changes have been requested by the assessment team following consideration of public submissions,” Mr West said.

“These changes will provide additional space between the facility and the neighbouring property.

“It will also improve the building space for the required retaining walls along the western side of the property.”

The Mid North Coast Diagnostic Imaging spokesperson said they saw the Highfields Circuit site as an opportunity to invest in the future of healthcare needs of Port Macquarie residents, recognising this area as the new medical precinct.

Permission has been given to remove 18 trees on the site.