Extended return date for prison survey

MEANDER VALLEY residents now have until April 15 to express their views on the siting of a new prison at Westbury. Corrections Minister Elise Archer said although many surveys had been sent out from March 16, the government was aware some Meander Valley households were yet to receive a survey on the preferred site of the Northern Regional Prison. ‘Following requests from concerned Westbury residents the government has determined it appropriate to extend the deadline to 30 March.’ ‘This important mail out survey is being independently conducted by SGS Economics as part of its role to complete a Social and Economic Impact Study for the preferred site.

‘As a result of this new survey deadline and because of the challenges that have emerged due to the coronavirus, it is expected the Government will now receive the report later than had been previously indicated.’ Ms Archer reiterated that no final decision had been made about where the Northern Regional Prison would be located. She said the SEI Study was an important part of the government’s extensive consultation process, which will determine if this is indeed the best location for this important facility. The survey has been sent to 7500 households. People who require more forms should phone 61656782 or email northern.prison@justice.tas.gov.au.