The Mullumbimby Hospital Site Project Reference Group (MHSPRG) met last week and chairperson, Greens councillor Jeanette Martin, said that the excitement about the site’s potential ‘was hard to contain’.
Tuesday’s (November 14) meeting was the first of the 21 community groups and individuals who make up the group – and Ms Martin said there was ‘enormous optimism about the future use of the site for the community’.
‘It’s important for people to know that the community has felt a strong sense of ownership of the site since the original hospital opened in 1969,’ Cr Martin said.
‘Mullumbimby has always had this culture of self-reliance – and that energy is still there and this is evident by the way people are working together on this project,’ she said.
The Mullumbimby Hospital was closed in May 2016 when the new Byron Central Hospital opened and the NSW Government announced earlier this year that it would sell the site to the Byron Shire Council for $1.
‘The site is not without its challenges, including a well-documented history of asbestos but nothing is insurmountable and we are up for the challenge,’ Cr Martin said.
‘The MHSPRG will develop a management plan for the site in 12 months and this first meeting takes us one step closer to realising that goal.
‘Well-known local identity Gil Lomath, is a spokesperson for this group and there will be plenty of opportunities for people to share their ideas and get involved in this project when we consult with the broader community in the first half of next year,’ Cr Martin said.
Meeting notes and other relevant information about the group’s activities will be provided on the Council’s website at http://www.byron.nsw.gov.au/committees/mullumbimby-hospital-site-project-reference-group
One thought, admitted;y a somewhat selfish one: it ould be a great place for a hospice. This was suggested to me by a couple of local doctors involved in palliative care and they are enthusiastic — perhaps it could go into the mix. Mungo