The Western Cape Government has allocated R67 million to restore Paarl Hospital after a fire, with repairs already underway and services continuing despite infrastructure damage.
The Western Cape Government has confirmed a R67 million investment to rebuild and strengthen Paarl Hospital following a recent fire.
The funding, announced during the Provincial Budget by Deidré Baartman, will support the repair of key infrastructure, including the Outpatient Department (OPD), and the replacement of damaged equipment.
Officials say the recovery programme is focused not only on restoring services but also improving the hospital’s long-term resilience.
Repairs progressing rapidly
Work to restore the OPD has advanced quickly since the incident. The damaged roof structure was removed shortly after the fire, and reconstruction has already been completed, with interior restoration now in progress.
Additional upgrades are also being carried out in waiting areas and reception spaces as part of the broader recovery effort.
Services remain operational
Despite the damage, Paarl Hospital has continued to operate, with some services temporarily relocated within the facility to ensure uninterrupted patient care.
Services that were initially affected, including audiology, the kiosk and Department of Home Affairs access, have now been fully restored.
Patients visiting the OPD are currently received in a temporary ground-floor waiting area, where staff assist with directing patient flow.
Special arrangements have also been implemented for patients with mobility challenges, including alternative access routes where stair access is not suitable.
While limited lift availability remains a constraint, on-site teams are managing access to minimise disruption.
Focus on resilience
Mireille Wenger said the recovery reflects the adaptability of the province’s healthcare system, with teams working to maintain services while rebuilding infrastructure.
Head of Department Dr Keith Cloete added that maintaining access to care has remained the priority, alongside stabilising and restoring the facility.
The Western Cape Government said recovery work will continue over the coming months, with the investment aimed at ensuring Paarl Hospital can continue to serve the Drakenstein community safely and reliably.
