Upper Hunter residents have welcomed the news construction is underway for the next phase of the Muswellbrook District Hospital redevelopment.
And, to mark the milestone of the $45 million third stage, three Old Man Saltbush trees will be planted outside the future Community Health Space.
The project team consulted with Aboriginal horticulture specialists in the planting of the trees, which are hardy and local to the area, and were traditionally used by First Nations people as bush tucker.
“The Muswellbrook District Hospital redevelopment means the community of Muswellbrook and the Upper Hunter will have modern fit-for-purpose hospital and healthcare facilities,” NSW Minister for Regional Health Ryan Park said.
“We’re ensuring it meets the needs of people now and well into the future.
“The start of works is an exciting breakthrough for hospital staff and the local community.”
Stage three, which will create a more integrated health facility for patients and visitors, includes a new Operating Theatre suite (one operating room, one procedure room); a Sterilising Department; and relocation of Community Health clinical spaces into the existing hospital.
“The announcement marks an important step in delivering improved healthcare facilities for Muswellbrook and the surrounding areas,” Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley said.
“While there is always more to do, this progress ensures the community is closer to having the modern, accessible care it deserves.
“This milestone gives locals the confidence and reassurance that healthcare services are strengthening, with better facilities and support within reach when they need it most.”
Construction will start on the Operating Theatre followed by the Community Health area.
Works on the Sterilising Department are slated afterwards.
“The project will deliver improved and contemporary spaces for patients and a health service,” said acting executive director of Infrastructure, Planning and Sustainability, Hunter New England Local Health District, Anna Styles-Tape.
“It’s an important milestone in the $45 million redevelopment and means we are one step closer to delivering contemporary health services for the community.”
Construction is expected to be completed in 2027.
The project is being delivered by Hunter New England Local Health District and Health Infrastructure with Richard Crookes Constructions as principal contractor.
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