Parliamentary Secretary for Justice David Clarke was onsite, spade in hand, along with Corrective Services Acting Commissioner Rosemary Carauana and Lendlease General Manager Joel Stringer.

Mr Clarke said that the additional beds and rehabilitation programs were part of a push to increase community safety.

The NSW Government is investing a record $330 million into programs to reduce re-offending and this new facility will have a clear focus on purposeful activity, employment and education,” he said.

The expansion will feature five new minimum-security blocks, a programs building, a new gatehouse, reception and visiting areas and a health clinic.

There will also be additional parking for staff and visitors.

Minister for Corrections David Elliott said the construction of the new wing, expected to commence later this month would create around 300 jobs in the construction phase and an additional 40 when finished.

“The NSW Government is committed to investing in the Hunter and this new development will continue to stimulate jobs and growth,” he said.

Minister for Corrections David Elliott said construction of the new wing would begin later this month, and deliver about 300 jobs during construction and more than 40 jobs when finished.

We’ve already created hundreds of jobs in this region with the construction of the Hunter Correctional Centre, which opened in January, as well as the complex’s maximum-security expansion, which is expected to open next year.”

The sod-turning comes after a public meeting, held on Saturday and attended by approximately 50 residents and Cessnock MP Clayton Barr to oppose the proposed new access road off Kerlew Street, Nulkaba from Wine Country Drive – one of three options currently being investigated.