While it was confirmed there are no new COVID-19 cases in Northern NSW yesterday, it was reported late last night that construction was paused on the Stage 3C redevelopment at Lismore Base Hospital as reported on social media.

This was a precautionary measure to allow investigations into two construction workers who were identified as close contacts of a COVID-19 exposure site in Coffs Harbour.

The two contractors have tested negative and will continue to self-isolate for 14 days, as required under the current public health orders.

A further 77 construction workers and project staff were identified as secondary close contacts and are self-isolating while they await test results.

Lynne Weir, Acting Chief Executive Northern NSW Local Health District said there are currently no confirmed COVID-19 cases among residents of Northern NSW Local Health District, nor any confirmed cases isolating here.

"There is no operational impact to patients or staff at Lismore Base Hospital, and people should continue to present for medical care."

"As the Principal Contractor for the redevelopment, Hansen Yuncken is responsible for procuring and engaging any sub-contractors as well as suppliers for the project."

"The construction site has workplace policies and procedures in place for managing COVID-19 in accordance with NSW Government advice."

"The project is working with the Northern NSW Local Health District to ensure health and safety requirements are strictly adhered to."

"We ask the community to remain vigilant and continue to practise COVID-safe measures at all times. Anyone feeling unwell – even with the mildest of symptoms such as a runny nose, scratchy or sore throat, cough, fever, shortness of breath, headache, tiredness, loss of taste or smell, nausea, diarrhoea or muscle aches – should immediately get tested and self-isolate until they receive a negative result so that any potential cases in the community are identified as quickly as possible."

"I would like to thank these construction staff and our community for their ongoing adherence to these public health measures. Thank you to everyone who has come forward for testing so far. The safety and well-being of our local community is our priority."

 Lismore Base Hospital is once again open and fully operational.