Broome Regional Prison will have new security measures, a much-needed reception area, enlarged recreation spaces, bedding and new women’s cells as part of a $2.7 million upgrade.
Announcing the upgrade today, Corrective Services Minister Fran Logan said the Broome prison had been left in limbo for too long creating undue pressure on staff and prisoners.
The previous government left a cloud hanging over its future when it was announced it would be closed by December 2015 and then backtracked on that decision but did not make any firm plans about the prison’s future.
The $2.7 million upgrade will include:
- A new secure prisoner reception area and new cells for female prisoners ($695,000);
- Extended cyclone-rated perimeter fences and new razor wire ($235,000);
- Expanded out-of-cell amenity for maximum security unit ($250,000);
- Accommodation upgrades including new bunk beds, mattresses, electrical fittings and ablutions ($665,000);
- Radio upgrades and mobile duress alarms ($150,000); and a
- New secure visitors’ area ($90,000).
It is expected that up to 70 per cent of the budgeted amount will be spent with local contractors as part of the State Government’s commitment to local jobs and local content where possible.
The works are expected to begin as soon as practical.