Delivering a major piece of the region's infrastructure on time is a tricky business at the best of times, but doing it under COVID-19 restrictions is another challenge altogether.
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Yet despite the added complication, the New Maitland Hospital remains on schedule with the structure now well and truly climbing from the ground.
Health Infrastructure NSW confirmed this week that work on the $470 million project remains on schedule with all ground floor concrete pours now completed.
The ground floor will be the location of the emergency department, ambulatory care and medical imaging.
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With the concrete work done, local trades have started installing plumbing, fire services and electrical cabling.
At the same time work has started on the formwork for the Level 1 concrete pours.
Level 1 will be the location of the majority of the surgical services. This will include the operating theatres, birthing suite, special care nursery, close observation unit, intensive care unit, catheterisation lab and perioperative unit.
Once the level 1 concrete pours are complete, work will begin on engineering services for the floor including fire, hydraulic and electrical services.
The ambulance road has now also been completed and will provide a dedicated and separate access to site for ambulances and emergency services.
The building contractor, Multiplex are proud of the high percentage of local trades on site who are contributing significantly to the project.
When completed the new hospital will provide emergency care, chemotherapy chairs, surgical services, critical care, maternity services, paediatric care, cardiac catherisation, inpatient beds, mental health, palliative care, outpatient clinics and dental. Car parking for patients, staff and visitors will also be delivered.
The new hospital will be across seven levels, comprising two podium levels plus four levels above and one level below ground. The building has a total ground floor area of about 49,000 sq/m.
The building features two 'towers' in a north-south alignment, with a connecting wing over a common podium. The overall look will reflect a slender, elongated 'H'.
The building's main entrance is on the western facade, with pedestrian paths leading to car parks and other entries.
A number of internal courtyards are proposed, designed to provide a link to a more natural setting and a green outlook. They are:
- Mortuary Courtyard - The Mortuary Courtyard is located on Level B1 and is accessible from the mortuary room.
- Rehabilitation Courtyard - Located on Level 3 and will be used primarily for patient care. It will also comprise loose furniture, exercise equipment and stair and handrails to be used for patient rehabilitation.
- Mental Health Courtyard - Located on Level 3, it aims to provide a relaxing, 'home like' environment providing areas to reflect and engage in physical activity.
- Multi-faith Courtyard - The eastern facade includes a landscaped area featuring a planter garden space for reflection.