Preferred site identified for new women and newborn hospital

In a significant milestone for the project, and for all NMHS, the Minister confirmed that it has been recommended that the new hospital will be built North of SCGH - G block. The preferred site includes the land currently occupied by E block and the piazza area between E and G blocks, bound by Hospital Avenue to the East and Watling Walk on the West.

This announcement follows a comprehensive analysis and evaluation process of multiple sites at the QEIIMC.

Key factors which contributed to the nomination of the North site include:

• Future-proofing the QEIIMC, including future redevelopment opportunities for major existing tenancies located on the QEIIMC (i.e. the most effective long-term use of land and infrastructure on the broader precinct)
• Consistency with QEIIMC master planning principles, connectivity of services on site and maintaining acute services centrally on the campus.
• The North site allows for a larger hospital footprint, allowing for more efficient clinical linkages with SCGH.
• Better opportunities to maximise natural lighting, access to views, inclusion of courtyards and better potential for upper-level green spaces to enhance patient and staff amenity.

Together with the commencement of Concept Design for the new hospital, planning for the relocation of all services currently operating from SCGH E block will also now commence. Consultation with staff, tenant and consumer representatives will be an integral part of this process as we identify practical, workable accommodation solutions for all impacted areas.

The Women and Newborn Service Relocation Project (WNSRP) team will work closely with all stakeholders and the QEIIMC Trust to ensure any issues/concerns are addressed and thorough planning is undertaken to minimise disruption.

In addition to the identification of the proposed site, a cross-agency working group will be established to work with the QEIIMC Trust to develop options for increased access to car parking at the QEIIMC, for both construction and operational phases of the project.

The WNSRP is an exciting opportunity to create contemporary, world-class facilities which will enable the delivery of high-quality services and an enhanced experience for patients and families, not only for the services relocating from KEMH but also for those impacted by the site selection.