Proparamedics deploys off-road ambulances in Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland’s private ambulance provider Proparamedics has introduced the region’s first off-road recovery ambulances, marking a major expansion in operational capacity.

The two custom vehicles are part of a £500,000 investment by its new owner, Tullamore-based MCL Group, which acquired the business earlier this year.

Founded in 1999 and recently integrated into MCL Group following acquisition by Medicall Ambulance Service, Proparamedics has relocated its operations from Weaver’s Court, Belfast, to the Maryland Industrial Estate. The new premises support an expanded fleet, dedicated training facilities, and improved logistical capacity.

The off-road ambulances are designed to reach patients in locations inaccessible to standard vehicles, targeting remote sites and outdoor events such as racecourses. Managing director David Brophy explained that the vehicles will increase responsiveness and extend private healthcare coverage across Northern Ireland.

Alongside fleet expansion, the company is investing in staff training and operational infrastructure to maintain high-quality emergency care. The modern headquarters enables enhanced coordination and rapid deployment, positioning Proparamedics to scale services efficiently.

MCL Group chairman Paul M. ffrench-O’Carroll stated that the investment underlines the group’s ambition to develop the strongest and most advanced private ambulance provider on the island of Ireland. The next phase will introduce a state-of-the-art training facility, strengthening skills at all levels and supporting consistent clinical standards.

The development integrates innovative vehicle deployment, strategic facilities, and workforce training to enhance access and reliability in private emergency healthcare. It establishes a model for combining operational growth with specialised clinical services in the private sector.

Find out how Proparamedics is redefining emergency access and scaling private healthcare in Northern Ireland in the full story.