top of page

Accessibility

The goal of providing universal access to the site would come with major physical intervention into the existing fabric and the loss of associated heritage value. Works to achieve greater access have to be carefully planned and managed to minimise impact on fabric and heritage value. In some cases, universal access to all spaces within the Prison precinct will be impractical and undesirable from a heritage impact perspective.

​

Presently there are a number of spaces that form part of tours that require stair access, including some of the guard boxes, the chapels and upper floors of the Main Cell Block and the basement, the underground tunnel tours, the gallows and other spaces. The houses and hospital buildings have similar issues relating to universal access. Reversible interventions such as new handrails and contrasting visibility strips should be considered. More substantial intervention, such as lifts and ramps, might be supportable but the presentation of key spaces like the Parade Ground and the Terrace should be considered. Proposals must be assessed for heritage impacts on a case-by-case basis.

​

SPECIFIC POLICY 1: Consideration should be given to the development of a masterplan identifying the key spaces that form part of the Prison tour and key spaces for alternative uses. From this a strategy can be developed to address key areas where access is limited or requires upgrading.

SPECIFIC POLICY 2: Approaches to universal access should be based on a masterplan process. In the interim, and after the masterplan is in place, proposals for changes to access will need to be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

SPECIFIC ACTION 1: Prepare an Accessibility Masterplan to identify key spaces that form part of the Prison tour experience and devise a strategy to provide accessibility where needed. This must include a careful consideration of potential heritage impacts on a case-by-case basis. Identify suitable or alternative uses for heritage buildings to avoid the situation where modifications for universal access would result in substantial loss of heritage fabric or diminish heritage values. This plan should be prepared in consultation with a building surveyor and accessibility consultant.

​

SPECIFIC ACTION 2: Implement the above plan’s recommen­dations.

bottom of page