Lake Macquarie Private Hospital is set to undergo its most significant transformation to date, with two major developments receiving planning approval in Gateshead, New South Wales. With a combined value of $131.3 million, the twin projects represent a major investment in regional health infrastructure. Ramsay Health Care Australia Pty Ltd will deliver the developments. Together, they will reshape the Gateshead hospital precinct and expand its clinical footprint across the Lake Macquarie region.
Proposal Overview
The approved works span multiple lots fronting Sydney Street, O’Brien Street, Casey Street, and the Pacific Highway. Together, the two projects will deliver more than 160 new hospital beds, modern theatres, improved access points, and landscaped surrounds within the Lake Macquarie health precinct.
The first development (SSD-71941462) includes a five-storey medical tower built above a new entry forecourt. It will deliver 52 inpatient beds, 10 consulting suites, 24 infusion treatment spaces, and essential clinical and administrative support areas.
The second development (SSD-38025700) involves a nine-storey hospital extension. It includes 114 inpatient beds, five operating theatres, 11 consulting suites, and new emergency and ambulance access zones. In addition, a basement car park will provide 56 spaces, helping to reduce pressure on surrounding streets.
Once complete, the combined hospital expansion will boost capacity to 293 beds. The expanded facility will include nine inpatient theatres, five day surgery theatres, and a hybrid operating suite. A broader range of specialised health services will also be available. As a result, the private hospital upgrades are expected to significantly improve access to care across the Lake Macquarie area.
The NSW Independent Planning Commission approved both State Significant Development applications after a public hearing and detailed review. According to the Commission, the proposals will deliver clear public benefits. These include expanded hospital capacity, increased local employment, and stronger health infrastructure across New South Wales.
Artist impression by Health Projects International
Background of the Proposal
Lake Macquarie Private Hospital is located in a well-established residential area of Gateshead. The site spans approximately 14,000 square metres across several adjoining parcels.
The hospital has gradually expanded over time. In the past, Ramsay Health Care acquired and demolished neighbouring residential lots to support future growth. These new approvals continue that strategy. They confirm the site’s role as a long-term health infrastructure hub for the region.
Under the Lake Macquarie Local Environmental Plan 2014, the land is zoned SP2 Infrastructure (Health Services Facility). Hospital use is permissible with consent. Therefore, the dual approvals align with Council’s broader planning strategy and respond to the community’s growing health needs.
Independent Planning Commission Decision
The NSW Independent Planning Commission was appointed as the consent authority for both developments under section 2.7(1)(c) of the State Environmental Planning Policy (Planning Systems) 2021. This requirement was triggered because the applicant, who also owns the land, disclosed a reportable political donation under section 10.4 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.
Following a public hearing and detailed assessment, the Commission approved both development applications. It found the projects would deliver strong public benefits. These include improved hospital capacity, better access to health services, and increased job opportunities during and after construction. Furthermore, the Commission considered impacts on traffic, residential amenity, and the environment. It determined that consent conditions would manage these effectively. The strategic location, planning compliance, and proven need for expanded services all supported the final decision.
Project Team
- Developer: Ramsay Health Care Australia Pty Ltd
- Architect: Health Projects International
- Landscape Architect: Terras Landscape Architects
- Planning Consultant: Willowtree Planning Pty Ltd
- Urban Design: Hatch RobertsDay
- Traffic and Parking: TTPA
- Stormwater and Civil: Acor Consultants
- Noise and Vibration: SLR Consulting
- Social Impact: Urbis
- Ecological and Heritage: Umwelt
- Other specialist consultants: Various including geotechnical, waste, remediation, and ESD
For more information, search the application number (SSD-71941462 or SSD-38025700) on the Department of Planning’s website.
