The McLean (heritage) building was officially reopened on Tuesday at a special ceremony at Forbes Hospital.
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The refurbishment of the heritage building marks the end of the early works portion of the $40.9 million redevelopment of Forbes Hospital, with staff moving into the McLean building yesterday.
Lachlan Health Service manager Liz Mitchell officiated the ceremony on the lawn in front the McLean building, which was attended by Lachlan Health Service staff, community representatives, Lachlan Health Council and Forbes Shire Council.
During the ceremony, long standing community member and Lachlan Health Council co-chair Dan Herbert spoke and planted a tree to symbolise a new beginning for the historic building, which will now be used for administrative purposes.
“This will become the hub of management of the Lachlan Health Service,” Mr Herbert said.
“It’s a very good step in the progress and reconstruction of the medical facilities in Forbes.”
Ms Mitchell said it was very exciting to be able to reopen the McLean building after the amount of work that has gone into getting the project to this stage.
“It’s such a great thing to now have staff working from the administration building including mental health staff and community nursing staff,” she said.
“The people in town are very proud of this particular building and the fact that we can use it is the most important thing.
“It is great to make use of this beautiful old building, which has been partially restored to its former glory, especially the tower – people in the community particularly relate to the spire which has been brought back to its former glory and you can see it as you come into town from Orange.
“The gardens have also been brought back to life. It’s beautiful.”
Ms Mitchell said all credit goes to the heritage architects Rice Daubney, as well as the early works construction company, Zauner Construction.
Lahey Constructions was awarded the main works construction package last month and has now commenced onsite with initial work focused on site establishment, earth works and the installation of in-ground services.
The new infrastructure at Forbes will ensure services will be delivered more efficiently, and these improved services will help to attract and retain a highly skilled and motivated workforce.
The redevelopment will also provide a higher standard of access and amenity for patients, their families and carers.
The Lachlan Health Service project is funded by the NSW government and includes the refurbishment of Forbes Hospital and the $72.5 million redevelopment of Parkes Hospital. It is scheduled to be complete in mid-2016.
For all the latest information about the redevelopment visit the project website http://www.lachlanhealthserviceproject.health.nsw.gov.au.