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Downing Centre unveils multimillion-dollar upgrade
The historic Downing Centre has received a $10.6 million upgrade that sees the addition of several new courtrooms and added space for legal support services.
Emma Musgrave
Four new “state-of-the-art” courtrooms have been built as part of the upgrade, taking its total number up to 40. Six new interview rooms, three additional remote witness rooms and a new safe room have also been added.
The works to the building, which was first cemented in 1908, also saw restoration of its awnings of the Edwardian-era building, including the awning rods and distinctive lion heads that hold them, as well as the refurbishment of bathroom facilities.
NSW Attorney-General Mark Speakman unveiled the works on Australia’s busiest courthouse last week, noting the refurb’s ability to boost capacity and ultimately improve access to justice.
“The Local Court deals with 96 per cent of all criminal matters from start to finish. The new courtrooms increase its hearing capacity, helping the court to manage its significant workload. The additions include a multi-purpose custodial courtroom able to accommodate a Drug Court,” Mr Speakman said.
“This project preserves the heritage of the former Mark Foy’s department store, an important Sydney landmark, while also delivering major improvements to the engine room of the largest justice precinct in the southern hemisphere.”
Mr Speakman noted it was particularly great to see dedicated support areas added for those who are in need of accessing such services.
“Victims of crimes such as domestic violence and sexual assault show great courage in coming forward and it’s pleasing there are now more private and secure areas for them to prepare for court and give evidence,” Mr Speakman said.
Emma Musgrave
Emma Musgrave (née Ryan) is the managing editor, professional services at Momentum Media.
Emma has worked for Momentum Media since 2015, including five years spent as the editor of the company's legal brand - Lawyers Weekly. Throughout her time at Momentum, she has been responsible for breaking some of the biggest stories in corporate Australia. In addition, she has produced exclusive multimedia and event content related to the company's respective brands and audiences.
Prior to joining Momentum Media, Emma worked in breakfast radio, delivering news to the Central West region of NSW, before taking on a radio journalist role at Southern Cross Austereo, based in Townsville, North Queensland.
She holds a Bachelor of Communications (Journalism) degree from Charles Sturt University.
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