Decision On ‘Superjail’ To Be Delayed

A decision on whether a massive new prison will be built near Market Harborough has been delayed.

It was thought the plan would be considered by the District Council next month, but that now won’t happen until April.

The Ministry of Justice has requested the deferral, so it has more time to engage with the community about the proposal for the 1700-inmate prison being built near HMP Gartree.

The area where the new prison would be built   Pic: Andy Carpenter

Opposition against the so-called ‘super jail’ has been increasing in recent weeks – over 300 people have lodged objections with the council and 322 people have signed an on-line petition.

The MoJ is also ‘pausing’ its separate plan to expand the current prison, so it can accommodate an additional 250 prisoners.

A Ministry of Justice spokesperson said:  “We are continuing to work closely with people in Market Harborough and the surrounding area on our proposed plans which will create hundreds of jobs and bolster the local economy.

“We have already made a number of changes to minimise the impact on roads and protect wildlife on site and will hold a number of community drop-ins over the coming weeks so we can continue these important conversations with members of the public.”