Australia's New South Wales (NSW) Government has completed the detailed design phase for stage two of the Manning Base Hospital Redevelopment project.

This critical milestone sets the stage for early works to begin next year on the project, which aims to enhance health services for local communities in the Lower Mid-North Coast region.

For this, the NSW government is investing A$180m ($122.7m) into the Lower Mid North Coast Health Service project, which encompasses both the Manning Hospital Redevelopment stage two and the Forster-Tuncurry health facility projects.  

The completed design for stage two of the Manning Base Hospital redevelopment now features refurbished inpatient accommodation, improved connectivity within the campus, and expanded telehealth services.

All these improvements are designed to meet the evolving healthcare needs of the region.

In addition, the Hunter New England Local Health District is conducting additional clinical services planning for the Lower Mid North Coast Health Service project.

The district has initiated consultations with staff and stakeholders to inform this planning process, ensuring that the redevelopment aligns with the community's requirements.

With the appointment of a contractor pending, the early works for the redevelopment are now projected to commence next year.

Under the initial stages, the work will majorly include demolishing the existing 'administration building' to create space for the new inpatient accommodation facility.

Hospital administration staff will be temporarily relocated to facilitate the demolition and construction activities.

The project is a collaborative effort between Health Infrastructure and the Hunter New England Local Health District, aiming to deliver a modernised healthcare environment.

NSW Regional Health Minister Ryan Park said: “The recommencement of the project team for the Manning Base Hospital Redevelopment is an important step, and we are excited to see the Lower Mid North Coast Health Service project moving forward.

“As Regional Health Minister, I’m deeply focused on improving access to care in our regional, rural, and remote communities, and I’m so thrilled we’re recommencing work on this important project.

“As the project progresses, there will be continuing opportunities for staff, clinicians and the broader community to have input in helping shape the redevelopment.”