Independent Lake Macquarie MP Greg Piper has raised concerns over the future of the Morisset Hospital site, fearing that the lack of a comprehensive master plan may jeopardize the development of a new sports and recreation centre. In December, Steve Kamper, the New South Wales Minister for Sport, announced plans to transfer seven hectares of the hospital’s land to the Office of Sport for a new $40 million facility. Although the hospital is not set to close until 2027, Piper emphasizes the urgency of planning to prevent potential degradation of the area.
During a recent address to the state parliament, Piper criticized the government for its apparent lack of foresight regarding the site’s future. He stated, “As far as I can see, it just plans to turn the lights off and leave.” He warned that if NSW Health vacates the premises without proper planning, the site could fall victim to vandalism, theft, and neglect instead of undergoing necessary redevelopment.
Piper expressed particular concern about the absence of a master plan, which he believes is essential for managing the infrastructure required for the new sports centre. He noted, “Make no mistake: if the funds committed to this project are eaten up by enabling works, the sports facility will not get built.” The 2025-26 NSW budget currently does not allocate funds for the master plan or its associated infrastructure upgrades.
The Morisset Hospital, which spans over 1,200 hectares, was established in 1900 and officially opened in 1909. Piper urged the government to take this opportunity to develop a plan that honors the site’s natural and cultural heritage. He highlighted the need for an updated heritage management plan to protect the 14 items of state significance included in the local environmental plan.
“We cannot let the opportunity pass by because of a failure to properly plan for it. To do so would shortchange the people of Lake Macquarie,” he stated. Piper also criticized the government for not recognizing the potential issues that would arise from leaving Morisset without adequate planning. “It is mind-boggling that it could think of doing so when it knows that this would lead to degradation of the site and its valuable heritage buildings.”
The situation at Morisset Hospital reflects broader concerns about the stewardship of heritage sites in New South Wales. As local community leaders continue to advocate for responsible planning, the government’s response will be crucial in determining the future of this significant location and its role in the Lake Macquarie community.
Comment has been sought from NSW Health regarding the planning and future of the Morisset Hospital site. As the deadline for the hospital’s closure approaches, the urgency for clear, actionable plans becomes increasingly apparent.
