This is a major step forward for Otago and Southland.
It is exciting to see progress on this crucial piece of infrastructure that will serve the people of the Clutha District.
The signing of the construction contract with CPB Contractors Ltd marks a giant step forward for healthcare in the lower South Island.
This new inpatient building is not just a project; it represents a commitment to the health and wellbeing of our communities.
The government has prioritised this initiative, ensuring that Dunedin and the surrounding Otago and Southland regions will have access to a modern, safe and fit-for-purpose hospital.
The $1.88 billion investment in the new Dunedin Hospital programme is New Zealand’s largest health infrastructure project and it is poised to deliver substantial economic benefits to our region.
At the peak of construction, this project will create over 900 full-time jobs and contribute about $100million annually to the Otago economy.
With CPB Contractors Ltd as our main construction partner, we can be confident that this project is in capable hands.
Their experience in managing large-scale projects in both New Zealand and Australia ensures that we have the right expertise to navigate the complexities of this undertaking.
The timeline for this project is ambitious yet achievable, with practical completion expected in 2030 and the hospital opening its doors to patients in 2031.
This timeline reflects our commitment to delivering a world-class healthcare facility that meets the evolving needs of our communities.
This government’s record investment in health infrastructure underscores our dedication to providing modern healthcare solutions.
We are focused on creating a hospital that can adapt to changing models of care, ensuring that we are prepared for the future.
While we celebrate this significant advancement in healthcare, we are also addressing other pressing issues, such as the conversion of productive farmland into carbon forestry.
I’ve spoken with many people in Clutha who are passionate about this issue.
It is essential to strike a balance between agriculture and forestry, preserving our high-quality soils while promoting sustainable practices.
Our recent Climate Change Response (ETS — Forestry Conversion) Amendment Bill is a crucial step in banning blanket carbon forestry conversions, protecting our rural communities and food production.
The Bill passed its third and final reading in Parliament last week and will become law on October 31.
Having been the National Party spokesman for forestry before the election, I’m proud to have been part of the team bringing this important policy to fruition.
It recognises the importance of our primary sector for our valuable food-producing areas like right here in the Clutha.
