The session, hosted by the Southern NSW Local Health District (SNSWLHD), discussed the schematic of the refurbishment to the hospital’s existing facilities to improve health services.

The redevelopment will include 24-hour access to emergency care, an additional treatment bay, dedicated ambulance entry point, an increase from 10 to 12 inpatient beds, an improved community and allied health facilities and ongoing access to x-ray services.

Geoff Frost, Yass Valley councillor and a board member of the SNSWLHD, said it was a positive to see funding spent on the hospital.

“It’s something that’s needed. As Yass grows, it’d be a great asset into the future,” Cr Frost said.

“I thank Pru Goward for the work on it to obtain a good amount of money.”

Asked about the main talking points on the night, Cr Frost said that one main concern residents expressed was about parking.

“Some people were concerned about that. But we’re going to have another look at it for improvements.

“I have great confidence the team will address those concerns,” he said.

Cr Frost said that the redevelopment brief was in relation to the inside of the building but the team went a step further to consider parking.

Other departments to undergo refurbishments include security, staff accommodation and clinical support.

Security includes an airlock system at the main entrance.

“Im very pleased they’ve gone out of their way to consult with the staff,” Cr Frost said.

Other infrastructure-based feedback and questions that residents raised included design (e.g. acoustics) and layout of departments, including inpatient and staffing areas.

Subject to planning approvals, construction is expected to start in the second half of 2018.

The completion time frames will be confirmed once a construction contractor is engaged.

The new works will be built through a staged approach, minimising any impact to clinical services.

The redevelopment is part of the NSW Government’s $300m Multipurpose Services (MPS) Program.

The Tribune has submitted further questions to SNSWLHD for a more detailed report.