Opened in spring 2024, the new Nanaimo Correctional Centre is also home to a number of high profile rehabilitative programs. (File photo/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By Alex Rawnsley

rehab programming

New Nanaimo Correctional Centre programs nearing full operation

Aug 26, 2024 | 5:29 AM

NANAIMO — Months after it was officially opened, work is continuing to get programs and services up to maximum capacity at the city’s newest jail.

The new $181-million Nanaimo Correctional Centre was unveiled in May, and features room for upwards of 400 inmates serving sentences of two years or less. In addition to serving court-ordered sentences, inmates have access to rehabilitative programming.

A statement to NanaimoNewsNOW from the Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General said since May, all available programming is either operating or close to getting underway.

“This includes the Guthrie Therapeutic Community program, Right Living program, Indigenous/cultural program and various vocational, skills and behavioural programs. In addition, the carpentry program will commence in the coming weeks and hiring for instructor positions for the horticulture program is nearing completion.”

The 16,750 square metre facility is roughly 35 per cent larger than the former jail, which was built in the 1950s.

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Since opening, inmates have fully moved over to the new Correctional Centre and demolition on the former site began late in the spring.

It’s expected to wrap by early 2025.

The 200 rooms at the new Nanaimo Correctional Centre have double occupancy options, but the facility population is not current at the level where it’s needed. (BC Government)

Also due for completion in 2025 is a new Indigenous programs building, horticulture centre and additional program space, according to the Ministry.

A major feature of the new Correctional Centre was a female-only area, the first of its kind on Vancouver Island.

Twelve spaces for female offenders is resulting in fewer transfers to and from the Lower Mainland for court appearances and serving of sentences.

In their statement, the Ministry confirmed the unit is operational and has been used since opening in May.

Once hiring is complete, the Ministry expects roughly 150 full-time staff will work at the Centre.

— with files from Ian Holmes

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