Rosalie Woodruff MP | Greens Corrections spokesperson
We welcome the Premier’s confirmation that Ashley Youth Detention Centre is a suitable facility for a therapeutic northern prison.
While no final decision has been made, Mr Gutwein’s comments will give hope to many in the Westbury region, and around the state, who love Brushy Creek Reserve and don’t want it destroyed.
Ashley will close its doors as a place of abuse and sadness for young people in three years.
The Brushy Rivulet Reserve outside of Westbury has significant natural values, it's no place for a prison. The masked owls, wedge-tailed eagles and the precious blue pincushion should be protected in perpetuity.
The Reserve is also a rocky, high fire risk area, that’s nowhere near electricity, water or suitable road infrastructure. In contrast, AYDC is a 51-bed facility with services and infrastructure, located on 32 hectares of cleared land adjacent to the Bass Highway.
Ashley Youth Detention Centre is a sensible alternative site. We are pleased the Liberals are moving towards that option.