Design unveiled for new North Rothbury ambulance station

newy.com.au – The design for a new ambulance station at North Rothbury has been unveiled, with construction expected to begin this year on a purpose-built facility to support emergency care across the growing Hunter region.

The station is one of five new ambulance stations planned for the Hunter under the NSW Government’s $615.5 million NSW Ambulance Infrastructure Program, which is delivering 30 stations and supporting infrastructure across Sydney, the Central Coast, Newcastle, the Hunter and Illawarra.

The North Rothbury facility will include internal parking for up to eight emergency ambulance vehicles, on-site vehicle wash facilities, administration and logistics areas, multipurpose spaces, staff amenities including a gym, and on-site parking.

Planning approval and the appointment of building contractors are still required before work begins. The station’s location, with access to the Hunter Expressway, is expected to complement the existing ambulance network and improve coverage for North Rothbury, Branxton, Greta and surrounding communities, while supporting stations at Kurri Kurri, Cessnock, Singleton and Rutherford.

New ambulance stations are also being delivered at Gateshead, Caves Beach, Edgeworth and East Maitland as part of the Hunter rollout.

Minister for Regional Health Ryan Park said the project would give paramedics the facilities and resources needed to support emergency care.

“We’re backing our paramedics with the modern infrastructure and resources they need to deliver high-quality emergency care for communities across NSW. More ambulance stations, more paramedics, optimised response times, and better patient outcomes,” Mr Park said.

“The unveiling of the new ambulance station design marks another step towards delivering a vital health service for the Hunter Valley community and surrounding areas.”

Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley said the investment reflected population growth in the area.

“This is a major investment in frontline care for one of the fastest-growing parts of the Hunter,” Ms Catley said.

“North Rothbury, Branxton and surrounding communities deserve emergency services that keep pace with local growth.

“This new station will give local paramedics the modern facilities they need to respond quickly and save lives.”

Member for Cessnock Clayton Barr said paramedics across the Hunter would benefit from five new purpose-built stations.

The government is also recruiting 2500 additional NSW Ambulance staff, including 500 paramedics for rural and regional areas.