Critical cladding remediation works have commenced at Calvary Mater Newcastle, with site establishment works underway.
The NSW Government is expediting building and infrastructure works at the site to replace the non-compliant cladding on the hospital's external façade with new materials that meet current safety and performance standards.
NSW Health has exercised its rights to have this work undertaken as soon as practicable and engaged a building contractor earlier this month, with work expected to be completed by mid-2027.
To support the cladding replacement works, site fencing, work compounds and designated material drop-off zones are being established. Further scaffolding will shortly be installed on the south elevation (Radiation Oncology) ahead of cladding removal and replacement.
The NSW Government remains committed to ensuring the continued safety, functionality and reliability of Calvary Mater, which will continue to operate during the works.
Health Infrastructure is working closely with the building contractor, Hunter New England Local Health District and the Calvary Mater Newcastle team to coordinate construction activities and minimise disruption to patients, staff and visitors, as well as nearby residents, businesses and road users while remediation works progress.
Access points will be monitored during construction and temporary pedestrian areas near work zones may be established to ensure access is maintained. Short term traffic control management and speed limit reductions may be implemented to ensure the safety of workers, staff and the community.
Health Infrastructure has also engaged an independent consultant to conduct a full building condition assessment of the Calvary Mater Newcastle facility which will commence later this month.
Quotes attributed to Minister for Health Ryan Park:
"The NSW Government is getting on with the job and commencing work to deliver critical cladding remediation works at Calvary, which has been repeatedly delayed due to ongoing commercial discussions with Novacare.
"We are taking action and have worked quickly so these remediation works can now begin, with a building contractor engaged and activity already underway on site.
"This work will ensure the hospital continues to provide a safe environment for patients, staff and the community."
