Concept designs for the new $558 million Albury Wodonga Regional Hospital have been released, with planning approval currently being sought for the project.
The proposed project is anticipated to deliver a mix of new and refurbished facilities. An upgraded and expanded Albury Wodonga hospital has long-been proferred as a critical component of the Murray River region’s broader healthcare system, as it would support the rapid growth of communities along the NSW and Victorian border.
As stated by the NSW government, the proposed project includes a new seven-storey Clinical Services Building; more than 80 additional beds across three new inpatient units; an additional at-grade and multi-storey car parking and a new hospital main entrance and public drop-off zone at Keene Street.
The updated hospital would also accommodate a new Aboriginal family lounge, a new multi-faith centre, new surgical and operating theatres, a 32-bed mental health inpatient unit to replace and expand the existing Nolan House 24-bed service, a new intensive care unit, and upgraded maternity and birthing wards.
Hassell has led the design of the proposal in consultation with First Nations consultant Yerrabingin. According to a communique released by Hassell, the design draws on perspectives from local Aboriginal communities and Wiradjuri Country narratives to reflect the region’s cultural richness. The release noted that this collaborative process has resulted in a design that features a network of open gardens and internal courtyards, providing hospital users with access to fresh air and greenery.
“Engagement with Traditional Owners also shaped elements of the Clinical Services Building, including strategic sight lines to culturally significant sites,” the statement reads.
The architects noted that the building’s interior aims to humanise the healthcare experience through biophilic design and the adoption of a warm, natural material palette.
Hassell principal in charge Catherine Loker emphasised that creating a creating a calm, peaceful healthcare environment with access to nature and fresh air “will benefit the entire hospital community” comprising patients, staff and visitors.
“We’re committed to delivering a vital community hub that will support local healthcare,” Loker said.
The NSW, Victorian and Australian governments have jointly committed $558 million to the Albury Wodonga Regional Hospital project in what is one of the largest regional health projects currently planned in NSW.
Source: Architecture - architectureau
