Prison Campaigners ‘Considering Options’

Campaigners are considering their options after Harborough District Council said it will not contest the decision to allow a new prison to be built near Market Harborough.

The Government gave the go-ahead for the ‘super-prison’ on land near HMP Gartree – overruling the council’s decision to refuse planning permission.

The council was considering legal action to fight the ruling, but after seeking legal advice has been told there are no grounds for any challenge.

Diana Cook from Gartree Action Group told HFM they have received a differing view:

Campaigners opposed to the new prison

Harborough MP Neil O’Brien who has opposed the new prison told HFM he would support any challenge, should the money be found for it:

A council spokesperson said: “Harborough District Council wanted to fully explore the option of a legal challenge and funded advice from King’s Counsel (KC) on the matter.

“Unfortunately, KC advised that no grounds for a challenge have been identified.

“The council’s Chief Finance Officer also advised that allocation of funding for this legal challenge would not meet the fiduciary duties of the council.”