Survey results released this week show the majority of the community want health and wellness services to continue at the David Berry Hospital.

The hospital’s services will relocate to the $448 million redeveloped Shoalhaven Hospital in 2026, with the David Berry site taking on a new role.

The Have Your Say survey gathered community and stakeholder responses on potential future uses for the site, its historical and cultural value and partnership opportunities.

More than 80 per cent of survey respondents supported continued health-focused services, with many calling for community-led initiatives over commercial or residential developments and for the site’s history and green spaces to be preserved. 

The NSW government says feedback from the survey will inform future discussions, working groups and broader consultation opportunities with stakeholders. 

“The nearly 1200 responses reflect the community’s strong interest in the site's future, and we will ensure stakeholders are listened to and kept well informed about next steps,” says Health Minister Ryan Park.

“Although no longer suitable for its original purpose, this government will ensure the David Berry Hospital site will continue to serve the community.”

The report is available for the community to review on the Have Your Say website.

Meantime Kiama MP Gareth Ward has claimed a win in his bid to obtain documents, under the Government Information (Public Access) Act, outlining the government’s plans for David Berry Hospital once services move offsite. 

After his request for the documents was refused, he appealed the decision through the NSW Information and Privacy Commission, which ruled the Government’s decision to deny the application was not reasonable.

“David Berry Hospital should continue as a health facility, and the public have a right to know what our government is up to,” says Mr Ward.

“I have long had concerns that the government’s consultation isn’t genuine. I look forward to seeing what’s in these documents.”