Former Tenterfield Police sergeant, and now deputy premier, Troy Grant was in town on the campaign trail with Member for Lismore Thomas George.

Together they announced a $330,000 project to improve disability access and fire safety at the historic Tenterfield Courthouse.

Mr Grant left the Tenterfield police in 2006 to work at the Police Commissioner's office in Sydney, later transitioning to Dubbo where he was elected to state parliament in 2011.

Mr Grant said the upgrades will not detract from the heritage value of the building.

“The Tenterfield Courthouse has been among the town’s most important landmarks since the 1800s and these upgrades will ensure it is better protected if a fire breaks out,” Mr Grant said.

“The solutions to disability access and fire safety issues will not require changes to the appearance of the historic courthouse.”

Meanwhile, Mr George said people with a disability were entitled to access the same court services as everyone else and he said this project would make sure that can happen.

“The entry ramp will be upgraded, handrails will be replaced, tactile indicators will be installed to assist people with vision impairment and bathroom facilities will become more accessible,” Mr George said.

The project will also bring the court in line with modern fire safety standards. There will also be new emergency and exit lighting and signs, while the court’s electrical distribution board structure will be made more resistant to fire.

“Fires often occur without warning and can spread quickly, causing significant damage and putting lives at risk,” Mr George said.

Mr George said the project will provide a boost for the local economy.

“Local tradespeople will complete much of the work, while experts from out of town will be staying at our hotels and utilising our local small businesses,” Mr George said.

The upgrades are due to begin in April and will be completed in June.