The existing Banksia Mental Health Unit on Dean Street, Tamworth should be kept in public hands and repurposed as a drug and alcohol detoxification unit once the new Tamworth Mental Health Unit is built.

Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson said he had been campaigning for the building to repurposed and said now is the time for the government to plan for the building being vacated in just 18 months time.

"We are building a $58 million, modern mental health unit for Tamworth that will service the entire Northwest and better serve those who need clinical inpatient mental health support," Mr Anderson said.

"While construction of that facility continues for the next 18 months, we need to think about what's next to better support our community.

"Clearly, we need services from those who suffer from addiction to drugs and alcohol, which is why I'm pushing for the existing Banksia to be kept in public hands and repurposed as a drug and alcohol detoxification facility.

"While the region does have drug and alcohol outreach services, who do an outstanding job, we do not have the inpatient facility we need for detox.

"It makes good sense to repurpose the existing Banksia facility as it is located near with other medical services, and is a short distance away from emergency.

"The government are aware of my push to repurpose the existing Banksia building, and I'm calling on them to commit to the plan."