SA: Work to start on new hospital later this year

AAP General News (Australia)
04-09-2008
SA: Work to start on new hospital later this year

ADELAIDE, April 9 AAP - The South Australian government will begin cleaning up the
site of Adelaide's new $1.7 billion hospital later this year after releasing a master
plan for the project today.

The Marjorie Jackson-Nelson Hospital is due to open in 2016 and will be built on disused
rail yards in the city centre.

Premier Mike Rann said work to clean up the site would begin later this year, including
the removal of contaminated soil.

Health Minister John Hill said the Marjorie Jackson-Nelson would be the most technologically
advanced hospital in Australia.

"We will design and build this hospital with the comfort and ease of patients in mind
and with guidance and input from clinical staff, to ensure it is practical and functional
for their use as well," he said.

The release of the master plan triggers a five-week public consultation period with
the government encouraging feedback on the hospital's design.

Mr Hill said the government would also consult with clinicians and he reaffirmed the
government's view that a new hospital was a better option than upgrading the existing
Royal Adelaide Hospital.

"We will be replacing the ageing rabbit warren that is the Royal Adelaide with a brand
new, custom designed and built, state-of-the-art facility," he said.

"This is what South Australians deserve for their health needs now and into the future."

But the Liberal opposition said the government should seek a mandate for the hospital
at the next state election in 2010.

Opposition Leader Martin Hamilton-Smith said the government should not make any financial
commitments to the project until the people have had their say.

AAP tjd/jec/mn

KEYWORD: HOSPITAL

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