Grafton and surrounding communities are being given a look at the latest designs for the Grafton Base Hospital Redevelopment with new artist impressions showcasing the new hospital building and improved access to the facility.
The NSW government says it is investing $263.8 million in the Grafton Base Hospital Redevelopment to provide new and enhanced health services for the region.
The design for the redevelopment will integrate new and existing facilities on the campus to preserve the identity and history of the hospital. It will deliver a new three-storey building, including a new Emergency Department, Emergency Short Stay, Medical Imaging and MRI, and inpatient unit.
The Day Surgery and Operating Suite will also be expanded, which will provide additional operating theatres, increasing overall capacity. The new building will provide a space for maternity services to be relocated in the future, as well as identifying zones for potential further development.
A new inpatient building, located on the north-east side of the campus, will be seamlessly integrated into the existing hospital via a new hospital street at the current public main entrance. This will connect to a lobby in the new building to enhance access.
The redevelopment will improve access to the hospital for patients, visitors and staff including public access to the hospital from Arthur Street, with a turning circle drop-off zone for visitors, and access to existing on-street parking spaces.
Staff and service-related access remains on Crown Street, with the new services yard positioned at the northern end of the campus to support operational needs.
The landscaping design will create a welcoming space for patients, visitors and staff, incorporating culturally inclusive elements that reflect the local region.
This includes a ceremonial area outside the existing Aboriginal Health Unit, native plantings, winding pathways to symbolise the Clarence River, and a welcoming forecourt.
Modern treatment spaces
Minister for Regional Health Ryan Park said, ‘The Grafton Base Hospital Redevelopment will deliver modern treatment spaces to support contemporary models of care and improve capacity. We are excited to share more about this important project with the Grafton community at a series of upcoming information sessions.
‘Planning for the redevelopment has been carried out in close consultation with clinical staff, ensuring a strong focus on delivering on identified clinical priorities.’
Government Spokesperson for Clarence, Emily Suvaal MLC said, ‘I’m really proud to be part of a government which is investing in regional healthcare.
‘The redevelopment project at Grafton will ensure the facility remains fit for purpose to treat patients for many years to come, and it also ensures it will be a welcome place for our hardworking staff to come to work.’
Feedback and input from staff, stakeholders and the community will continue to help shape the redevelopment.
The Grafton community is invited to learn more about the redevelopment at pop-up sessions at Grafton Shoppingworld on Tuesday, 13 May from 3pm to 5pm, and Wednesday, 14 May, from 9am to 11am.
Construction timeframes will be confirmed once planning has been finalised, and a main works builder is appointed.
As part of early works for the project, construction is progressing to refurbish two administration blocks within the minimum-security section of the old Grafton Gaol to provide contemporary administration, office and training support facilities for hospital staff.
Clinical services will remain on the existing Grafton Base Hospital site.
For more information, visit the project website: hinfra.health.nsw.gov.au/projects/project-search/grafton-base-hospital-redevelopment.
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