Calls for funding to progress the multi-million dollar Gunnedah Hospital upgrade have been heard and answered thanks to the NSW Nationals in the state government.
NSW Nationals Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson had been calling for the NSW budget to include funding to accelerate the planning process and open the way for construction works to begin.
Mr Anderson said: “The NSW budget has delivered!”
“This is great news for the people of Gunnedah and the wider community,” he said.
“It’s expected that the cost of preliminary planning will be approximately $500,000 and I’ll be pushing for the work to begin as soon as possible.
“The funding supports the $53 million election commitment I made to upgrade the Gunnedah Hospital and provide the modern facilities and equipment that our health staff need and the community expects.
“The upgrading of facilities is important because it helps to attract doctors and health professionals to our region so local residents receive the best possible health care.
“Modern health facilities are also an important factor in attracting new people and new businesses to regional centres such as Gunnedah.
“Funding for planning will help ensure construction begins soon after, providing a valuable injection of funds into the local Gunnedah community.
“Construction of NSW Government projects, such as the $53 million Gunnedah Hospital upgrade play an important role in supporting local tradespeople and associated businesses.
“I am pleased the funds are flowing and that we can look forward to progressing the project.
“I want to see the upgrade fully developed as quickly as possible.”
For more information about the NSW Government’s 2020/21 Budget, please go to budget.nsw.gov.au.