Construction of the Lockyer Valley Correctional Centre designed by GB-A is nearing completion, with the high-security men’s prison expected to open at the end of this year.
Described as the prison with “no bars on the windows” the Lockyer Valley Correctional Centre is Queensland’s largest correctional centre providing an additional 1,536-beds for male prisoners to ensure safer, less crowded, and more effective prisons state-wide.
Queensland Corrective Services Acting Deputy Commission Adam Black told ABC news that rehabilitation is central to the philosophy of the facility.
“Research has shown that where you have a facility that has open spaces, light, in combination with the health and rehabilitation opportunities that we’re providing, it encourages better behaviours within the prison.” Black said.
GB-A Project Lead and Associate Director, Craig Blewitt said that he was excited to see the project nearing completion.
“The physical environment of a correctional centre influences prisoners, staff, and visitors in so many ways. It’s why we’ve taken a rehabilitative approach to the design by utilising evidence-based practices to reduce recidivism through enhanced mental health, drug, and alcohol rehabilitation services.
He continued, “I want to say a big thank you to all the GB-A team who have and still are working on the project, they have worked very hard since we won the project in February 2020. It’s so great to see it nearing completion.”
