This month the team completed one of the largest pours of concrete to lay the foundation for what will become the elevated gardens on level 1. The images above show the Y shaped columns being installed and an artist's impression of how the space will look once its finished.
These open green spaces will be above the new emergency department and will offer staff and patients a place to sit and enjoy the fresh air. They will be accessible by walking across the link bridge at H2 or directly from the new building. There will also be a new café with indoor / outdoor seating – all of which has been designed to create a welcoming and calming space.
Work behind the hoarding in H2 is progressing fast with wall sheeting being installed along with various services (air conditioning, electrical and plumbing etc). The image (centre above) gives you an idea of what to expect with new retail spaces on the left and administrative offices behind a new enquiries desk on the right. The new administration areas are expected to be completed mid 2025, while the new retail areas will open in 2026.
Outside, more hoarding has been erected to support the level 2 link bridge that will be used by both staff and the community and the level 3 link bridge that will be the main access point for clinical staff.
The refubished new main entrance is progressing well with the new lift in the car park already up and running. The southern end of the new canopy will be completed in April (circled in green above). When the remaining section of canopy is finished (later next year), it will provide a sheltered walkway from the car park, across the road and into the new main entry. Temporary fencing has been installed outside the new exit from the car park lift. Take a moment before stepping onto the pedestrian crossing to look for any oncoming traffic to ensure the safety of yourself and others. Please slow down when you are walking or driving in this area.
Every Friday since the new year, Facility Planner Mel Crain (above far left with the plumbers) has been offering regular site tours for the John Hunter Engineering Trades. So far she’s hosted fitters, electricians and plumbers. Pictured above right is a small portion of the electrical cabling that is required to run the new hospital building.
Local artist Ellie Hannon has created six large artworks for the new precinct that will feature in wallpaper designs in several clinical areas (Emergency Department, Day Surgery, Operating Theatres, Intensive Care, Paediatric and Neonatal Intensive Care, as well as the Special Care Nursery, Birthing and the Executive Administration Unit.
Ellie’s work will also help people find their way around the new building as it will be digitised and featured on key walls in support of the wayfinding strategy.
The designs have been inspired by the incredible natural landscape of the Newcastle region – and the moments that we interact with them. Like the sun setting on ripples of water – or the way the trees frame the ocean as you traverse the Bombala track.
The themes have emerged after speaking with staff, patients and visitors as well as our local Aboriginal community.
Watch this video to find out more about the artworks.