Byron Bay’s new hospital ‘to complement Ballina Hospital’
Member for Ballina Don Page has welcomed the announcement of the site for the new Byron Shire Central Hospital, saying it would complement the planned expansion of services at Ballina Hospital.
Mr Page said a six-hectare parcel of land on the southern side of Ewingsdale Road, near the intersection of the Pacific Highway, had been chosen.
“It’s pleasing to see a site has been acquired after such a long wait and that the hospital is a step closer to becoming a reality,” Mr Page said.
“I have been advised by the North Coast Area Health Service services to be provided at the Byron Shire Central Hospital will include:
54 in-patient beds
An around the clock Emergency Department
Access to public and private surgical services
Palliative Care
Speciality paediatric services
A strong emphasis on maternity services, in keeping with local needs
Day rehabilitation services
A range of Community Health services, both on the campus and in the community
The size of the parcel of land will also allow for future expansion.
Mr Page said it was imperative the project continued to progress quickly to ensure the new hospital could be up and running as soon as possible.
“It is important that construction commences sooner rather than later so we can minimise the time taken to open the doors to his new health facility.
“The Byron Shire Central Hospital is part of the ‘one coastal hospital with two campuses’ concept that will maximise the health services available to the whole coastal community. The Byron Shire Central Hospital will complement the planned expansion of services at Ballina Hospital.”
