Local businesses have been invited to an industry briefing session, and expressions of interest have opened for work packages for internal and external structural works, finishes and equipment provision.

Maitland Business Chamber president Matthew Bardwell said the organisation saw the call as an opportunity for local enterprises.

“We want to encourage the local engagement as much as we can,” he said.

“It is going to hopefully provide local jobs so there is no leakage out of the area. We hope lots of people jump on and are successful as tenders.

“People really need to get on board and we will continue putting the word out.”

The industry briefing session –  held on Friday, November 16 at Club Maitland City, Rutherford – will provide an opportunity for interested enterprises to find out more information about getting involved with the new multi-million dollar project.

“It’s one of the primary considerations that I’ve had all along that we needed to have local businesses involved in this,” Maitland MP Jenny Aitchison added. 

“We saw the boost that the construction of Stocklands had for the local economy. It’s why we wanted this so quickly after it because we want to keep people employed.”

Main work is anticipated to commence in early 2019, with the $470 million new hospital expected to open in 2022.