Glen Innes Severn Council Mayor Margot Davis, this week welcomed the opening of the first local Computed Tomography (CT) scanning facility, marking a significant step forward in healthcare access, liveability and economic development for Glen Innes and the surrounding area.
The facility, delivered by New England CT Pty Ltd, a locally owned family business dedicated to improving regional healthcare, commenced operations last week following Council’s strategic decision at its Extraordinary Meeting in March 2025 to approve the sale of 146 Church Street and part of 148 Church Street, the former Essential Energy site.
Councillor Davis said, “This facility is only here through a decision of Council to sell the premises for this purpose, and it represents the most tangible health outcome ever resulting from a Council decision. One of Council’s top priorities is advocating for, and facilitating, better health outcomes, and the opening of this facility is a very satisfying and rewarding moment for Council and of enormous benefit to our community.”
The renovated front portion of 148 Church Street has since been transformed into a modern, accessible, purpose-built healthcare facility, while 146 Church Street, which contains an existing dwelling, is earmarked for future renovation to provide accommodation for resident doctors and visiting specialists supporting the service.
Residents of the Glen Innes Severn Local Government Area and surrounding LGAs can now access advanced diagnostic imaging locally, reducing the need for travel and improving timely access to care.
Cr Davis said the opening reflects the impact of clear, community-focused decision-making.
“This outcome highlights how strategic use of Council assets can facilitate private sector investment that aligns with our broader liveability and economic development objectives. The service occupies what was an underutilised building, with Council continuing to explore options for reactivating the balance of the site following a public consultation process late last year,” she said.
“Access to local diagnostic imaging will improve health outcomes, reduce travel, and strengthen our ability to attract and retain healthcare professionals.”
“I have been advised that in the few days since opening, over 100 patients have used the facility, saving enormous travel time and cost by not having to travel to other regional centres. In addition, the necessary medical information has been provided back to their health professionals in a more timely way, further improving the quality of patient health outcomes,” Cr Davis said.
Director of New England CT Pty Ltd, Simon Betts, said, “This has always been about improving access to healthcare for our community. For too long, people in Glen Innes and surrounding areas have had to travel significant distances for CT imaging. Providing this service locally means faster diagnoses, reduced stress for patients, and better health outcomes.”
“My wife, Jamii, and I are proud to deliver a modern, high-quality facility that supports both patients and referring clinicians,” he said.
Glen Innes Severn Council acknowledges the investment by New England CT Pty Ltd in delivering this important healthcare infrastructure, which will support improved access to essential services and contribute to the long-term wellbeing of the Glen Innes Severn community.
Media Release: Glen Innes Severn Council
