A long-term vision to develop and grow a Health and Knowledge Precinct in the city is now open for community discussion after Wagga Wagga City Council tonight (July 8) approved the concept to go on public exhibition.
Council is seeking community feedback on a 20-25 year vision to develop a central activity hub centred around the city’s two major hospitals, Wagga Base and Calvary Riverina.
Mayor of the City of Wagga Wagga Cr Greg Conkey OAM said developing a health precinct master plan is one of the first important steps in the planning and consultation process for this long-term vision.
“This is a significant vision for the future of the city and its health services to be developed over the next 20 to 25 years,” Cr Conkey said.
“The city can benefit from a planned health precinct to support current and additional medical specialist and health services in the locality. Short-term accommodation, commercial provisions and training and education services are also central to meeting the needs of these services in the city.
“The planning process needs to take into consideration the needs of the health industry as well as the general community who live and work in the area.
“A precinct is a central activity hub combining mixed-use community areas in which to live, work, study and relax. These areas include parkland and green spaces, street-level retail and dining, learning and innovation spaces, entertainment facilities and accommodation options.”
Council’s Manager City Strategy Tristan Kell said it is recommended that a steering committee is established to drive this project.
“Council would source expertise and available data to articulate the type of services available, development occurring, investment attraction and knowledge required to ensure this Precinct is best positioned to perform to its potential,” Mr Kell said.
“The Liverpool Health and Innovation Precinct has developed a framework for its Steering Committee, which incorporates a regular roundtable with executive level stakeholders to ensure that collaboration occurs, decisions are made and well‑being is improved.”
Council and the NSW Government’s Department of Planning and Environment have initiated the preparation of a master plan leveraging the current significant investment in the redevelopment of Wagga Base Hospital.
