Campaigners Frustrated At Latest Delay To ‘Super Prison’ Decision

Campaigners have expressed frustration after a decision on if a new prison will be built near Market Harborough was delayed for a fifth time.

An announcement from government was due on Wednesday, but now won’t be made until next month.

The prison is opposed by many people and Diana Cook from Gartree Action Group spoke to HFM:

Campaigners against the prison.

The 1700-inmate jail is earmarked for land near HMP Gartree and although Harborough District Council refused it planning permission, the Ministry of Justice lodged an appeal.

Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, Michael Gove, will have the final say and is reviewing the findings of a public inquiry, saying he still needs more time to consider the proposal.

Phil King is the county councillor for Market Harborough West and Foxton:

The area where the prison would have been built.  Pic: Andy Carpenter

Harborough MP Neil O’Brien says he will continue to campaign against the jail:

Following the latest delay in a decision being made, Cllr Phil Knowles, Leader of Harborough District Council has written to Mr Gove and again urged him to visit the proposed site:

A spokesperson for the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities told HFM: “I can now confirm that the Secretary of State will now issue his decision on or before 7 December 2023.

“It would not be appropriate to comment further.”