Taree Courthouse preserves a significant heritage building whilst creating a modern justice facility in an historic precinct. ARCH’s plan retains the original 1882 courthouse, demolishing later additions and adds a contemporary two storey structure to provide a modern court facility. The redevelopment includes two courts, jury spaces and amenities, judge’s chambers, spaces for meetings, legal aid and waiting, interview rooms, new registry facilities and a new formal covered entry.

The design resolves security and separation issues between the public, judiciary, court staff and prisoners. ARCH addressed the challenge to provide the required security levels while ensuring that the facilities are open and welcoming. Although an addition, the new building has the appearance of a freestanding building of significant civic calibre, as did the original courthouse building.