The next phase of construction in the $263.8 million redevelopment of Grafton Base Hospital is underway, with early works continuing and new traffic arrangements in place.
Welcoming the latest milestone, State Nationals MP for Clarence Richie Williamson said the early works, in front of the main hospital building, are well underway with changed traffic conditions now in place on Arthur Street.
These will allow the construction of a new pedestrian crossing, improving safety for patients, staff, and visitors.
"These works are a visible sign that the long-awaited redevelopment is moving forward," Mr Williamson said.
"The works involve minor refurbishments to a building near the existing main entry which will allow existing ambulatory care services to be relocated out of the main construction zone, ensuring health services remain accessible throughout the redevelopment.
"While there will be some short-term disruption, these changes are about making access to the hospital safer and preparing the site for major construction. These early works are carefully staged so patients, visitors, and staff can continue to safely access hospital services while the main construction progresses."
Mr Williamson said across the road at the former Grafton Gaol site, work is underway to refurbish two administration buildings.
"Once completed, hospital administration staff will relocate to the refurbished gaol site, allowing redevelopment works to commence on the main hospital campus while clinical services remain in place," Mr Williamson said.
The redevelopment will deliver a new three-storey Acute Services Building, including an expanded Emergency Department, Emergency Short Stay Unit, Medical Imaging and MRI, an inpatient unit, and an expanded Day Surgery and Operating Suite with two additional operating theatres.
Mr Williamson said he was continuing to advocate strongly for full maternity services to be delivered as part of Stage 1 of the redevelopment.
"It is critical that maternity services are fully operational as part of this stage - not just accommodated as a future shell. Families in the Clarence Valley deserve certainty when it comes to local maternity care," Mr Williamson said.
The $263.8 million redevelopment is a funding commitment made by the former NSW Nationals Government, and Mr Williamson is pleased to current NSW Government is honouring that commitment.
