Kyneton courthouse plans revealed as works begin

The Andrews Labor Government today unveiled the designs for the Kyneton courthouse which will make it safer and more secure for the community.

Attorney-General Martin Pakula visited the historic 160-year-old bluestone Kyneton courthouse today with the Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas.

The $1.2 million upgrade to the Kyneton courthouse is part of the Andrews Labor Government’s $58.1 million investment in court safety and security in the 2016-17 Victorian Budget.

Court Services Victoria has selected Raysett Constructions, a regional construction firm in Macedon Shire, to undertake the works.

The new courthouse design respects the building’s heritage and provides internal improvements to meet the needs of modern court users.

The internal reconfiguration will include a revamped public entry with disability access, and a foyer with separate waiting spaces and interview rooms, new registry counter and improved public amenities.

The design also incorporates a secure connection between the police station and the courthouse to ensure the safer movement of people in custody.

Site preparation works are already underway and the court has closed, with matters being heard at the Castlemaine Magistrates’ Court. Construction is scheduled to be complete by mid-2018.

When the court is reopened, there will be new Court Security Officers to provide a roving security presence on sitting days.

The Court Security Officers will carry hand-held metal detectors and provide escort services for vulnerable people when required, including for women and children who have been victims of family violence.

"This is a significant project which will deliver a safer and more secure court for the Kyneton community" Said Mary-Anne Thomas.