Project to add almost 400 new prison beds
Expansion part of $655million prisons' upgrade commitment
$90million expansion of Wooroloo facility
The Liberal-National Government's unprecedented capital works program in the prison system has entered a new phase with contracts awarded to expand Acacia Prison.
An extra 387 beds are to be added to the Wooroloo facility, bringing total numbers to 1,394.
Corrective Services Minister Terry Redman said the $90million expansion project was part of an ambitious infrastructure program to deliver an extra 2,500 prison beds by 2015.
"This project is a clear demonstration of the State Government's commitment to meet the challenge of high prisoner numbers, and to upgrade prison facilities to allow delivery of essential rehabilitation programs," Mr Redman said.
"The expansion at Acacia comes on top of construction of the soon-to-be-opened West Kimberley Regional Prison; new prison units at Casuarina, Hakea and Albany; and new prisoner work camps.
"As well as more beds, the Acacia Prison project will include new vocational, education and recreational facilities, and an extension to the heavy industries area.
"This expansion is a significant development for the Serco-run Acacia Prison, which the Independent Inspector of Custodial Services recently described as the best-run prison in the State."
Doric Contractors Pty Ltd has been selected as head contractor for the Acacia Prison expansion project, with KBR awarded the contract as engineering consultant.
The expansion project is due for completion in 2014.
Fact File
Govt's $655m capital works program in prison system biggest of its kind in WA's history
Infrastructure projects include construction of West Kimberley prison; new work camps at Warburton and in the Wheatbelt; and new prison units at Casuarina, Hakea and Albany prisons
Minister's office - 6552 6700
