THE long-awaited expansion of John Hunter and John Hunter Children's Hospitals will begin next month, with the early works contractor appointed for the new state-of-the-art facility.
Multiplex Constructions has been announced as the "enabling works contractor" for the NSW Government's $835 million investment in the John Hunter Health and Innovation Precinct project, with Health Minister Brad Hazzard saying it was a "significant milestone" for what will be a "huge expansion" of health services that will transform health care for the Hunter region.
"The new, seven-storey Acute Services Building will see a 60 per cent increase in Intensive Care Unit capacity and almost 50 per cent more theatres and the new Emergency Department will see treatment spaces for patients increase by almost 40 per cent," he said.
Minister for Regional Health Bronnie Taylor said John Hunter Hospital is already one of the busiest hospitals in the state and the region's population is set to increase by 22 per cent in the next 15 years.
"This expansion and enhancement of health services will ensure Newcastle, greater Hunter and northern NSW communities have access to cutting-edge health care now and into the future," Mrs Taylor said.
"The project will deliver a new birthing suite and inpatient maternity unit, as well as a new neonatal intensive care unit and special care nursery."
Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter Taylor Martin said the John Hunter Health and Innovation Precinct redevelopment will provide work for local builders, sub-contractors and tradespeople throughout construction.
"This significant infrastructure project will create jobs for the community and deliver a big boost to the local economy with 70 per cent of the work being delivered by Hunter New England businesses," Mr Martin said.
"Multiplex will be holding information sessions for interested businesses in the coming months and we're encouraging people to find out how they can be involved."
The project is scheduled for completion in 2026.
