Mrs Robertson said understanding how important a regional hospital like Tamworth was, she was disappointed to see it hadn’t been submitted for Commonwealth funding under the Health and Hospitals Fund.

“But I understand the Commonwealth Government’s requirements that work be able to commence straight away, as this package is really being used to kick-start the economy,” she said.

“It is a real pity we weren’t ready.

“However, it is preferable that Tamworth submitted the best plan possible and the correct amount committed rather than a rushed process for the sake of Commonwealth funding.

“We are still one of the best (hospitals) in the State and we want to be able to build and grow on that with the best possible configuration.”

Mrs Robertson said health planning was a long-winded process but remained confident the project would begin in the current parliamentary term.

“I trust Nathan Rees and he’s made the commitment to do that,” she said.

“He hasn’t made that commitment on everything but he has on this, and I believe he will

deliver.

“I will keep arguing and fighting for the continuation of our regional

hospital.”