Construction preparations have officially commenced at the Bathurst Hospital campus as the long-awaited redevelopment project, valued at $200 million, gears up for action. Site fencing and temporary sheds are being installed as part of the initial works to ready the location for the extensive upgrades. This development follows a lengthy wait since the announcement of the project by the former Coalition government in June 2022.
Initially, the construction start date was projected for early 2024, but it has since been postponed to the first quarter of 2025. Recent delays have been attributed to challenges in finalizing contractual arrangements, according to Ryan Park, the New South Wales Health Minister. While a specific date for the start of construction has not yet been established, a spokesperson from Health Infrastructure indicated that main works are “expected to start in the coming weeks.”
Construction Plans and Community Impact
The redevelopment aims to modernize health facilities and expand healthcare services to better meet the needs of the community. As part of the first year of construction, plans include an expansion of the emergency department and enhancements to the eastern side of the existing hospital building, which will introduce a new entrance area.
“Main works construction is expected to be completed in stages, with final completion anticipated in 2028,” the Health Infrastructure spokesperson stated. The planning process for the construction will prioritize minimizing disruptions for patients, staff, and visitors, particularly concerning parking accessibility.
“Health Infrastructure recognizes that parking and access to the hospital are important issues for the community,” the spokesperson added. “Work is under way to ensure that patients, visitors, and staff can navigate their way to the hospital and the health services they require.”
Community Engagement and Future Updates
To keep the community informed about the ongoing redevelopment, Health Infrastructure will host regular drop-in sessions. These sessions are intended as valuable opportunities for residents to learn about the progress of the project. The next session is scheduled for November 20, 2025, from 14:00 to 16:00, followed by another on December 15, 2025, from 16:30 to 18:30.
As construction advances, the Bathurst Hospital redevelopment promises to transform healthcare delivery in the region, ensuring that modern facilities are available to meet the growing demands of the community both now and in the future.
