The $263.8 million redevelopment of Grafton Base Hospital continues to progress, with early works well underway and new traffic arrangements in place as the next phase of construction begins.
State Nationals MP for Clarence Richie Williamson said early works at the front of the main hospital building are well underway, with changed traffic conditions now in place on Arthur Street. These changes allow for the construction of a new pedestrian crossing, aimed at 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 on the hospital precinct 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.”
Mr Williamson noted that while there will be some short-term disruption, the changes are designed to make access safer and prepare the site for major construction.
Across the road at the former Grafton Gaol site, works are underway to refurbish two administration buildings within the former minimum-security precinct. 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.
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,” he said.
The $263.8 million redevelopment is a funding commitment made by the former NSW Nationals Government, which is being honoured by the current NSW Government.
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