NSW Attorney-General Gabrielle Upton made a quick visit to Raymond Terrace on Tuesday to inspect progress made on the $1 million upgrade to the town’s courthouse.
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The upgrade, the largest done to the William Street courthouse in more than a decade, was expected to be finished by the end of July.
The three month project includes improved disability access, the construction of a safe room for vulnerable witnesses, new interview rooms and a revamp of the public foyer and waiting area.
“People deserve to have easy access to a fast, fair and efficient justice system,’’ Ms Upton said.
“Making regional courthouses fully accessible is an important step in achieving that goal.
“The upgrade will make accessing and using the Raymond Terrace Courthouse easier for everyone who uses the court including people with a disability, mothers with prams and the legal profession.
“Importantly, the new safe room will provide a sanctuary for vulnerable witnesses, including victims of domestic violence, greatly reducing the stress and trauma of the court process.’’
Ms Upton walked through the construction site and looked at plans with Steve Honeywell from the NSW Attorney-General and Justice Department.
She said the project was a mini-boost to the economy with 20 people from Raymond Terrace, Newcastle and surrounding areas employed to carry out the work.
Newcastle building and construction company the RTC Group was awarded the tender.
Raymond Terrace court matters have been transferred to East Maitland in the meantime.