City Shuns Facility Plan

Illawarra Mercury

Monday November 21, 2005

By PAUL McINERNEY

PLANS by the Iemma Government to build a medium and minimum security prison as an extension to the existing maximum security facility is facing growing opposition in Lithgow.

Similar plans in 1991 were abandoned after a community outcry.

The latest proposal is part of an urgent expansion of the state's prison system, which will include a 500-bed multi-level correctional facility expected to be built in either the Illawarra or Shoalhaven.

While Lithgow residents have accepted a maximum security jail housing some of the state's worst criminals, critics claim there has been little or no consultation over the new jail.

There is growing concern the $55 million facility will be used to "channel" serious offenders back into society and fears local welfare agencies, already under pressure, will be swamped.

As the Government is the consent authority, critics claim a green light for the new facility is only a matter of time.

LITHGOW SNAPSHOT NOT AVAILABLE ON THE DATABASE

© 2005 Illawarra Mercury

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