Emma Pritchard

Concerns have been expressed via media outlets surrounding the Grafton Base Hospital (GBH) redevelopment, which faces an uncertain future following reports NSW Health have paused construction on the project after Clarence Valley Council (CVC) voted to increase height restrictions on new buildings, altering the requirements in a bid to floodproof the regional city.

Due to commence in 2025, the Clarence Valley community has been counting down the days until construction on the long-awaited project begins, but CVC Mayor Peter Johnstone revealed the changes were implemented to prepare buildings for the future after council have been “taking a close look at water levels.”

While floodwaters have not previously entered the facility, GBH has been surrounded by floodwaters in the past.

It has also been reported NSW Health are investigating concerns the site could be isolated by rising floodwaters in the future.

The Clarence Valley Independent has contacted CVC and NSW Health for comment.