The State Government today announced it has finalised the acquisition of land for the new Perth Police Complex in Northbridge, with construction works scheduled to start in 2008-09.
The State Government today announced it has finalised the acquisition of land for the new Perth Police Complex in Northbridge, with construction works scheduled to start in 2008-09.
The $113 million complex, to be built on the corner of James, Fitzgerald and Roe Streets, will become the new central business district operational home for more than 400 police officers and staff.
Police Minister John Kobelke said the new facility would enable the collocation of policing resources currently dispersed throughout the Central Police District.
"The Carpenter Government is committed to building Western Australia and the provision of this icon policing complex is consistent with the Government's goal of providing high quality, accessible services," Mr Kobelke said.
"The new complex will help provide improved policing in the civic heart of Northbridge, Perth and the western suburbs."
The new 15,415 sqm, four-storey plus basement, Perth Police Complex building will include a Police Centre, Watch House and a Magistrates' Court. The 24-hours-a-day complex will be staffed over three shifts, with the Magistrates' Court operating six days per week.
With occupation scheduled for mid-2011, site works including the demolition of existing buildings and remediation will start in September, with the main construction due to begin in late 2009. The programmed expenditure estimate for 2008-09 is $6million.
"The State Government recognised the importance of not only providing the appropriate facilities for its officers, but for them to be located where needed both operationally and for public access," the Minister said.
Designed by Peter Hunt and Darryl Jackson Architects, and Guymer Bailey Architects, the new complex includes the provision of overnight detention for 72 persons and short-term detention accommodation for a further 40 persons.
The 4,875sq.m site has been acquired from Main Roads WA. As it was formerly a scrap metal yard, there are some contamination issues with Benzo(a)pyrene concentrations and metals. However, the site remediation works will include the removal of any hazardous materials.
The project also includes the refurbishment of the three floors vacated by the Perth Police Centre in Curtin House for use by the Specialist Crime Portfolio units, who currently occupy leased accommodation.
The Police Headquarters will remain in its current accommodation in East Perth. The future use of the current East Perth Watch House is yet to be determined as it, along with the headquarters building, is heritage listed.
