The ACT Government has ruled out two proposed sites in Cook as a permanent northside home for the residential rehabilitation facility Arcadia House.
Arcadia House, run by Directions Health Services, has operated in Canberra for almost 40 years, and provides residential and day programs, counselling, case management and 24-hour support.
But the facility must leave its ageing premises at North Canberra Hospital as part of planning for the new northside hospital.
The government had shortlisted two sites near the Cook Community Hub, but will no longer consider either following a six-week community consultation.
The government said most respondents supported alcohol and other drug rehabilitation services, but considered the proposed locations unsuitable, as green space was used for sport and community activities.
Health minister Rachel Stephen-Smith rejected suggestions that Arcadia House or its consumers would have presented a risk to the surrounding community.
“Alcohol and drug rehabilitation services of this kind are best placed in the community and have an incentive to be excellent neighbours, which is exactly what we see with other sites across the ACT,” Ms Stephen-Smith said.
Bronwyn Hendry, CEO of Directions Health Services, said finding a permanent site was important for clients, families, staff, and the wider health system.
“The people accessing Arcadia have made the decision to abstain from all substances, including alcohol, tobacco and other drug use,” Ms Hendry said. “A long-term location provides certainty for clients and their families, staff and the broader health system, and helps ensure people can continue to access the support they need when they need it.”
She said the new site should be safe and accessible, connected to transport, healthcare, and the community, and provide a home-like setting for residents.
“Residential rehabilitation works best when people are able to rebuild routines, relationships and life skills in a real community setting rather than being isolated from the community,” Ms Hendry said.
Infrastructure Canberra and Directions are assessing whether an alternative location has become available since the initial search or if any previously considered site warrants further investigation.
“Arcadia House is a vital rehabilitation and recovery service for people seeking support for alcohol and drug related dependencies, and we are committed to finding a permanent home for this service on the northside,” Ms Stephen-Smith said.
The Listening Report is available at https://yoursayconversations.act.gov.au/arcadia-house
