A new site for the future Broome Regional Prison has been
identified following an extensive site selection process that examined 29
locations.
The new location, site 29, is on Yawuru land in the Broome
Road Industrial Park, approximately 10 kilometres from the town centre.
The Department of Justice worked closely with the Yawuru
native title holders to identify an optimal site on Yawuru land.
A submission to the Shire of Broome will now be made to seek
the inclusion of the proposed Broome Regional Prison site in the Local Planning
Scheme.
If endorsed for inclusion in the Scheme, the Department will
work with the Yawuru people to negotiate the purchase of the land and commence
the broader approvals process.
Funding for construction of the new prison will be
considered as part of the 2023-24 State Budget process with expected
construction in 2027-28.
As stated by Corrective Services Minister Bill
Johnston:
“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 provide
the kind of cultural and educational opportunities that have been shown to benefit
prisoners on Country.
“We have listened to community feedback and conducted
an extensive site search that has identified what we believe to be an ideal
location for this much needed facility.
“The previously identified site, two kilometres east of 12
Mile, presented fewer planning and development challenges, but the Broome Road
Industrial Park offers greater access to existing services and closer proximity
to the town centre.
“The State Government looks forward to continue working
collaboratively with the Yawuru native title holders and Shire of Broome, who
have been exceptional in their support of the project.”
