335-inmate Otago Prison will cost $160m

The new Otago Prison at Milburn near Milton in South Otago will come with a price tag of more than $160 million and be finished by the end of 2006.

Up to 450 workers would be based on the 187ha site at Milburn during construction with earthworks likely expected to start early next year, said Department of Corrections adviser Stephen Jones.

The department yesterday gave details of its budget and of the construction timetable for the 335-bed facility.

Mr Jones said the initial earthworks project would involve about 15 people working on the South Otago site.

That number figure would gradually rise to 450 people. Mr Jones said the department estimated $160.9 million was needed for construction, commissioning and all other activities needed to complete the prison by late 2006.

The department also estimated about 160 staff would be needed for the prison once it opened.

- NZPA