Site selection process for new Broome Regional Prison completed
Decision follows review of 29 potential sites
New facility to keep prisoners on Country to access cultural services
A new site for the future Broome Regional Prison has beenidentified following an extensive site selection process that examined 29locations.
The new location, site 29, is on Yawuru land in the BroomeRoad Industrial Park, approximately 10 kilometres from the town centre.
The Department of Justice worked closely with the Yawurunative title holders to identify an optimal site on Yawuru land.
A submission to the Shire of Broome will now be made to seekthe inclusion of the proposed Broome Regional Prison site in the Local PlanningScheme.
If endorsed for inclusion in the Scheme, the Department willwork with the Yawuru people to negotiate the purchase of the land and commencethe broader approvals process.
Funding for construction of the new prison will beconsidered as part of the 2023-24 State Budget process with expectedconstruction in 2027-28.
Comments attributed to Corrective Services Minister BillJohnston:
"There is broad consensus that the current prison,parts of which date back to 1894, is beyond further repair and needs replacing.
"The Kimberley region needs a new prison that can providethe kind of cultural and educational opportunities that have been shown to benefitprisoners on Country.
"We have listened to community feedback and conductedan extensive site search that has identified what we believe to be an ideallocation for this much needed facility.
"The previously identified site, two kilometres east of 12Mile, presented fewer planning and development challenges, but the Broome RoadIndustrial Park offers greater access to existing services and closer proximityto the town centre.
"The State Government looks forward to continue workingcollaboratively with the Yawuru native title holders and Shire of Broome, whohave been exceptional in their support of the project."
Minister's office - 6552 6700
