Deputy PM Marks Start Of Construction On New Prison

A giant new prison being built near Market Harborough will be called HMP Welland Oaks.

The name was confirmed during a visit yesterday from Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Secretary David Lammy, who officially marked the start of construction on the 1,700-inmate facility following months of preparation work.

Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy speaking at yesterday’s ‘ground-breaking’ event

The Ministry of Justice says the name reflects the geography and history of the local area and was chosen after consultation with the community, however Welland Oaks and other suggestions were previously criticised by local politicians as not being suitable.

Set to open in 2029, the £300m, publicly-run Category B prison will be built on land next to HMP Gartree and cover an area roughly the size of 35 football pitches.

Deputy Prime Minister, David Lammy MP, said: “This Government inherited prisons on the brink collapse, with jails due to run out of spaces in mere days.

“This must never happen again. That is why as part of our Plan for Change we’re pressing ahead with the biggest prison expansion since the Victorian era.”

Harborough District Council unanimously rejected plans for the prison in 2022 after mass opposition from residents, but the scheme later received the go-ahead by then Conservative housing secretary Michael Gove, who went against the advice of the Government’s own planning inspector.

Cllr Phil Knowles, leader of the Liberal Democrat group, criticised the MoJ for not inviting any council officials to yesterday’s event:

Construction work is getting underway after months of groundworks on the site

The build will be delivered by Wates Group, a leading British family-owned development, building and property maintenance company.

Eoghan O’Lionaird, Chief Executive Officer of Wates Group, said: “We’re proud to be supporting the Ministry of Justice in delivering the vital prison places the country needs and showing how construction can be a force for good – building safer, stronger communities and leaving a lasting impact.

“HMP Welland Oaks is a highly advanced site built using modern methods of construction and other innovative techniques. It is designed to support rehabilitation and create opportunities for individuals to rebuild their lives. With workshops and extensive training facilities, we’re helping prisoners develop skills that can lead to meaningful careers after release.”

Reporters also quizzed Mr Lammy about the accidental release of prisoners after he faced criticism for dodging questions in the Commons earlier this week about the issue.