Labour Blocks Plan to Build 240 Places at Existing Prison – Guido Fawkes

“Following our letter to residents which was shared with you in January this year, I am writing to provide you with an update on the proposed additional houseblock at HMP Gartree, and the new prison under construction next to HMP Gartree. This is part of our ongoing commitment to sharing information and working with you and the local community throughout the build and into day-to-day operations of the prison.

You may recall that Ministry of Justice (MoJ) has been considering a proposal to build an additional 240 place houseblock at the existing HMP Gartree. I can confirm that this project will not be taken forward. This decision will reduce the impact of construction and the associated traffic on the local community, and I hope therefore that this decision will be positively received locally.

Whilst a decision has been taken not to progress with the expansion of HMP Gartree at this time, an expansion may be considered again in future. Should this be the case, MoJ will undertake any relevant consultation and planning applications necessary.

As you know, last December, we published a long-term building strategy which set out our programme for the largest expansion of the prison estate since the Victorians. This programme is funded in full across the spending review period- a total capital investment of £4.7bn. I can confirm that whilst this specific houseblock project is not being taken forward, it does not impact on this Government’s plans to deliver 14,000 new prison places by 2031.

Turning to the new prison next to HMP Gartree, I can advise that Ministry of Justice have signed an order with Wates Construction Limited to complete the main works for the new prison, which we expect to be complete by early 2029. You are likely aware that the new prison will be given a new name. We are preparing to launch a consultation with both stakeholders and the local community to find a name for the prison, so that it will have its own clear identity separate to HMP Gartree. I think it is very important that local culture and history is appropriately reflected in the choice of name and that we hear and consult with those living close to the prison on what they would like it to be called.

Following the consultation, a panel of representatives will determine what the best suggested name is for the prison, and we will then seek approval from the Secretary of State for Justice and ultimately His Majesty the King before making an announcement. Your participation in the naming panel would be welcomed and my officials will reach out to your office to arrange this, should you be able to take part.

I trust the above serves as a useful and welcome update.”