Construction Of Giant New Prison Moves Closer

Construction of a giant new prison near Market Harborough has moved a step closer.

Harborough District Council last night approved detailed plans for the appearance and layout 1,700-inmate jail, which is to be built on land near HMP Gartree.

The decision had previously been put on hold after councillors requested more details about some aspects of the scheme.

Campaigners and people living near-by the site spoke at the Planning Committee meeting saying their concerns had not been addressed, including around highway safety on Welland Avenue, which will be used as access to the £300m prison.

How the prison will look from above

The plan was approved on the casting vote of the committee chairman, after four councillors voted in favour of it and four against.

Outline permission for the prison was controversially granted by Secretary of State Michael Gove last year after the Ministry Of Justice appealed the council’s decision to refuse permission, which a Planning Inspector agreed with.

Cllr David Gair spoke at the meeting:

How the prison will look

The committee heard planning officers had successfully worked with the MoJ to amend the fascia colour of buildings and get more details about the boundary fence.

Councillors also agreed to delegate authority to a designated council officer to approve planning conditions relating to specific issues including drainage and environmental considerations.

These will be discharged in agreement with the Planning Committee Chairman and following receipt of the necessary technical approvals from the expert technical organisations as needed.

Diana Cook is from Gartree Action Group which campaigned against the plan:

Work to build the prison is set to begin later this year and take four years to complete.