The $263.8 million Grafton Base Hospital redevelopment secured by the former Liberal and Nationals State Government is set to proceed, NSW Government Budget papers, released on Tuesday, have confirmed.
Clarence Nationals MP Richie Williamson said he had been working cooperatively with the new Government, lobbying hard for the key project to escape Labor spending cuts in regional NSW.
"There was a real risk of a backflip after the Labor administration had said that all of the previous Government's projects were under review."
Mr Williamson said the Budget Papers appeared to confirm the timetable set out by the previous Government, but that he would keep a very close eye to ensure there were no delays.
"Just over $1 million has already been spent on early planning with the appointment of the specialist project team (Mace Projects as the Project Manager, Woods Bagot & HDR as the Architect and Altus Group as the Cost Manager) and the development of the Clinical Services Plan," Mr Williamson said.
A further $8.324 has been allocated in today’s State Budget for continued planning such as the master plan, detailed design, approvals, the business case and community consultation which readies the site for major construction. The Budget papers indicate expenditure over $243.5 million over four years to 2026-27.
Mr Williamson said community consultation was vital in order to get the best possible hospital for the health needs of the local community.
"All Clarence residents are stakeholders in this critical project for a healthy local future, and all deserve to have their say," Mr Williamson concluded.
Further information about the project is available on the NSW Health Infrastructure web site at https://www.hinfra.health.nsw.gov.au/projects/project-search/grafton-base-hospital-redevelopment.
FILE PHOTO: Richie Williamson pictured with members of the Grafton United Hospital Auxiliary outside Grafton Base Hospital. The UHA has been strong advocates for the redevelopment.
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