Extra funds to flow into western Sydney hospitals
Blacktown Hospital and Westmead Hospital of Western Sydney are set to receive extra $100 million in funds that would boost the health and emergency centers.
The extra funds form part of the proposed $1.4 billion hospital upgrade program in the 2015-16 NSW Budget released on 23 June.
Blacktown Hospital will receive an extra $30 million for Stage 2 upgrades, totalling $400 million. Neighbouring Westmead Hospital would receive $72 million for further redevelopment and upgrades.
Valued at $322 million, Stage 1 of the hospital expansion is the state’s largest infrastructure project and due for completion in 2015. It will deliver an additional 170 beds and establish the Clinical Services Building to provide comprehensive care centres for cancer, cardiac, respiratory medicine and aged care.
The proposed Stage 2 redevelopment of Blacktown Hospital includes a new emergency department, intensive care unit, operating theatres, more inpatient beds, ambulatory care and a boost to women’s and newborn health.
NSW Health Minister Jillian Skinner said the extra funding would assist the next stage of the program to commence.
“Pressing ‘go’ on Blacktown Stage 2 while finishing Stage 1 creates efficiencies in planning and construction resources. We are rebuilding the state’s hospitals more efficiently than ever before, ensuring patients and staff have access to state-of-the art facilities sooner,” Ms Skinner said.
