Glen Innes Courthouse will be made more accessible to people with a disability, with upgrades to the entry ramp, bathroom and car parking facilities.
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The work is part of an upgrade, which will include fire safety improvements.
Announcing funding to carry out work at the local courthouse, as well as two others at Warialda and Mungindi, Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall said the improvements would not detract from the heritage value of the building.
“This is about providing 21st Century solutions to safety and accessibility issues that will not impact on the appearance of the historic buildings,” he said.
When announcing funding of $860,000 to carry out the work on the three courthouses, Mr Marshall said the upgrade was due to begin in April and would be completed in June this year.
“These courts have been important landmarks since the 1800s, but like most old buildings they have issues that need to be rectified to make them safer and more accessible.”
He said the projects would also provide a boost for the local economy.
“Local tradespeople will complete much of the work, while experts from out of town will be staying at our hotels and using our local businesses,” Mr Marshall said.
The fire safety work will include new emergency and exit lighting systems, new signs, slip resistant stairs and improvements to paths of access.
“Fires often occur without warning and can spread quickly, causing significant damage and putting lives at risk,” Mr Marshall said.
“That’s why it’s important our local courthouses are compliant with modern fire safety standards to ensure swift and safe evacuations.”