“It’s important to keep in perspective that any future redevelopment of Tamworth Hospital will include carefully considered plans to cater for the future needs of palliative care patients, their carers and our staff.

“Friends of Nioka are asking for assurances that can’t be given until the planning process is complete. However, all the issues they are raising will be worked through as part of the planning process.

“There are no plans to demolish or close down the recently constructed Ronald McDonald House.

“In terms of a timeline for the Tamworth Hospital redevelopment, as previously discussed with the Northern Daily Leader, Hunter New England Health is following the normal planning process of a capital works project of this size and importance.”