A feasibility study on the future of the HSE-owned Toghermore campus in Tuam is to begin in the coming weeks.
A consultant has now been appointed to carry out the study, which will look at all of the HSE lands and properties in Tuam.
But Toghermore is seen as the key component, with 25 acres of land potentially suitable for a wide variety of uses.
The HSE says this survey will involve considerable public consultation with community organisations, including healthcare and sport.
Fianna Fail Councillor Donagh Killilea told Galway Talks there's enormous potential for the lands.