Morisset Hospital is more than just the future site of a replacement Sports Facility – its heritage buildings, landscape and historical significance mean the wider community has a real stake in what happens next. Much of the site's future is still undecided, so it's time for a clear plan to protect its heritage and deliver on local priorities.
Since the 2019 closure of Myuna Bay Sport and Recreation Centre I have pushed the Government to deliver on its commitment for a replacement with modern, community minded and accessible sport and recreation facilities for Lake Macquarie.
After much to and fro, a site has been chosen at the historic Morisset Hospital grounds, and early-stage consultation conducted. Sadly, divestment of the site at Morisset Hospital from NSW Health to the Office of Sport has not yet progressed due to the overlap of health services and the imminent closure of the hospital as an operating residential mental health facility.
I have called on the Government to act with haste to prepare a plan for the future of the site and proceed with the divestment process to ensure the land is locked in for the sports facility, and the historic Morisset Hospital grounds and its heritage assets are not lost forever to theft, vandalism or time. The divestment process would allow Sport to begin building inspections, infrastructure assessments, site surveys, planning and even early works.
The $40m funding is there, the community is ready, and I will continue to pursue this project to ensure the people of Lake Macquarie get what they were promised.
You can find more information on the project as it is released on the website HERE
