The project will be overseen by a community oversight group representing Health New Zealand, local government, infrastructure partners and tertiary institutions. Photo: RNZ / Delphine Herbert
Health Minister Simeon Brown confirms work is back underway on Dunedin's new hospital inpatient building, after years of delays and controversy.
In January, Brown announced the government would build the new facility at the former Cadbury factory site, after several months deliberating whether to build a scaled-back version or to retrofit the existing Dunedin Hospital.
In recent days, diggers have been spotted on site, as well as billboards proclaiming the involvement of Australian construction firm CPB.
Speaking from Dunedin on Thursday, Brown labelled the early work "a major step forward" in the coalition's commitment to the critical health project.
When complete, the building would be the largest single health facility in New Zealand, covering approximately 70,000 square metres.
Under the current timeline, Brown said construction on the steel structure would begin in August next year. He also announced a new panel of community leaders would be set up to keep locals well informed on the progress.
The group would include representatives from Health New Zealand, local government, infrastructure partners and tertiary institutions. It was expected to meet quarterly to consider matters related to the hospital, but would not provide advice on its design scope, clinical models of care or procurement decisions.
Brown said the project would be the largest health investment ever made in the South Island.
"We're getting on with the job," he said. "This will ensure the project is well embedded into the fabric of the city and the region, playing a vital role in ensuring the public receives clear and consistent updates, as the project progresses."
Dunedin Mayor Jules Radich said he was delighted the minister had taken up his recommendation for a "community oversight group", given the keen interest in the construction and fitout.
"The people of the south are rightly passionate about our new hospital," Radich said.
"I'm pleased the government has listened to the community's call for it to be built on the right site, with all 11 floors promised."
Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.
