The funding was announced in Thursday’s budget as part of the $6billion health budget over four years, which includes a further $24 million for patient transport and $10million for capital upgrades.

Health Minister Michael Ferguson visited the site on Sunday with Bass Liberal MHA Sarah Courtney and acting Ambulance Tasmania chief executive Paul Templar to view works already under way.

‘‘The $850,000 builds on last year’s $150,000 – it’s a $1 million redevelopment opportunity for this station,’’ Mr Ferguson said.

‘‘It’s about making sure that the building continues to be available to the Northern community to maintain the excellent service that’s provided by our Ambulance Tasmania paramedics.’’

The works include further building works, roof repairs, drainage and driveway improvements.

Mr Templar said Ambulance Tasmania was pleased to see the funding to upgrade the station.

‘‘This station is very strategically placed if you think about the design of Launceston – it’s very quick to respond to almost anywhere in the city and this funding will allow us to continue operating at this station effectively, and serve the community for perhaps decades to come,’’ Mr Templar said.

Planning of the staged works is under way and works are expected to start in the near future and be completed over the next two years.

In related matters, Mr Ferguson said the budget had taken into account expected increased wage costs and indexation for paramedics, after the Health and Community Services Union signed off on the work value claim on Friday.