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An end to uncertainty: Government outlines the Royal's future

ON 18 May, The State Government ended the ongoing speculation about the "New Royal Project" by announcing its plans to scrap plans to build a new Royal Hobart Hospital (RHH) on a Greenfields site on the railyards.

Speculation about the future of the Government plans needed to be brought to an end in order to provide some certainty for members.

HACSU was advised of the changed plans at a briefing provided by the Premier and Minister for Health Services.

In short, the Government announcement said:

• The Government was deferring its plans for a new Royal until economic conditions improve.

• The announcement of a $100,000 fund (over the next five years) to spend on improvements to the current hospital.

• The Government is not able to expend $1.5B required to build a new hospital and is examining options to redevelop the current hospital site into the future.

• A new health facility will need to be built close to the RHH to assist meeting growing demand, reduce pressure and free up space for future redevelopment. The current Tasmanian Ambulance site is an option being considered for this purpose.

• The Government will commence detailed planning in consultation with staff and stakeholders to discuss any future redevelopment plans. This is not a short term plan. The Government has announced that any redevelopment will need to be staged and is likely to take between 15-20 years involving the construction of new buildings along Argyle and Collins streets.

HACSU will continue to monitor events as they unfold. Members have already expressed concerns regarding potential exposure to materials and noise when any redevelopment occurs, and the possible relocation of the Tasmanian Ambulance headquarters to another site.

Members are assured that if and when the details of these issues are known, members concerns will be addressed.

For further information, please contact HACSUassist on 1300 880 032.