Construction works on the Shellharbour Hospital has stopped and Kiama MP Gareth Ward wants to know why.

Mr Ward secured more than $700 million to build the new Shellharbour from the former Coalition Government and has asked Ryan Park, the Minister for Health and the Illawarra, to explain why.

“Seeing as Minister Park was recently trying to take credit for the project only a few months ago, perhaps he can explain why the project works seem to have stopped dead,” Mr Ward said.

“The Local Health District has advised that a lead builder hasn’t even been appointed by the NSW Labor Government.”

Mr Ward wants the Minister to explain to the public why the project is delayed and when will the government appoint a builder and get on with the job.

“I know Labor aren’t great at building things, but the money was already allocated so he really needs to explain the hold up,” Mr Ward said.

“This project will not only be a great new facility, it will also see hundreds of locals employed as part of the construction.”

“At the last election, the Member for Shellharbour, Anna Watson, promised she would deliver maternity services as part of the new hospital. I’d also appreciate an update from Ms Watson and Mr Park about this promise.

Mr Ward also wants to know why the existing Shellharbour Hospital has a helipad and the new one won’t.

“We still don’t have an answer on emergency vehicle access to the hospital via Dunmore Road. We still don’t have an answer about pedestrian access from Shellharbour Junction Station.”

“The State’s Health Minister is also the Minister for the Illawarra. What is this bloke actually doing? It’s time for Mr Park to stop dithering and start delivering for our region,” Mr Ward said.

Construction of the new hospital is expected to be complete in 2027.