The refurbishment and upgrade of the historic Warwick Police Station is entering the final design stage.
The existing Warwick Police Station is part of the fabric of Warwick’s community. It is recognised on the Queensland Heritage Register and the buildings are significant within the Warwick townscape.
“As the final stages of design are completed, all the necessary approvals will then be sought to enable final designs to be put to tender,” Minister for Police Mark Ryan said in Warwick today.
“Upon completion of the tender evaluation, construction works are expected to commence by early 2023 with completion expected during 2024, weather permitting,” Minister Ryan said.
“This is further evidence of the Palaszczuk Government backing police with the best facilities and resources.
“We have already announced our commitment for an extra 2000-plus police personnel by 2025 – that will see at least 150 extra police to each police region.
“Keeping our communities safe is, and always will be, a Palaszczuk Government priority.”
Police Commissioner Katarina Carroll said the existing police station was functionally integrated with the local courthouse with the police watchhouse and police prosecutors located adjacent to the courthouse.
“The Queensland Police Service has been progressing the feasibility and design stages for the refurbishment and upgrade of the Warwick Police Station, fully utilising the current site,” Commissioner Carrol said.
“There has been a police presence in Warwick since before the inauguration of Queensland Police in 1864.
“There is a strong history of law enforcement that has worked out of the Warwick Station, but I am sure that the current personnel will appreciate this historic building is being brought up to date to support the important role that they play in this local community.”
Queensland Police Union President, Ian Leavers welcomed the commitment of the Palaszczuk Government to upgrading facilities and resources.
“Our members are dedicated to their jobs and the communities they serve and deserve to have the best amenities and equipment,” Mr Leavers said.
“Warwick Police Station and its members have been part of the fabric of this town going back more than 150 years and an investment in their future is of benefit to everyone, police personnel and the community.”
“Having been the local regional representative for southern police region, that includes Warwick, I know better than most that this upgrade is sorely needed and this will benefit police in the broader Warwick area for years to come.”
A fully approved total budget of around $15 million has been allocated for all aspects of the work.
