Helicopters will now be able to land and take off with ease near the Rosetown Health Centre.

A landing pad was constructed on the north west side of the Health Centre to provide an accessible place to pick up or drop off patients by helicopter.

The project came to fruition after STARS Air Ambulance had trouble landing in the spot during the spring thaw. Muddy conditions made the ambulance take off and land three or four times before they could find solid ground to park.

The pad is being funded by the Rosetown Health Foundation. The Rural Municipalities of Pleasant Valley and St. Andrews also contributed to the work by supplying workers, equipment and gravel.

The landing area, which is made up of eight oil-rig pads, is finished. The Foundation still plans to add a walkway between the landing area and the hospital for stretchers, patients and workers.

The Foundation expects to cover costs of about $32,000 for this project. The community seems to be behind the project, with many local services and clubs planning to contribute as well.

The new wooden landing pad is constructed from oil rig pads.