MoJ Accused Of Not Considering Other Sites For ‘Super Prison’
Written by HFM News on 5th October 2022
Campaigners have accused the Ministry of Justice of not doing enough to explore alternative sites for a massive new prison earmarked for near Market Harborough.
Opponents to the plan say the countryside near the existing Gartree Prison is not the right place for the 1700-inmate facility to be built.
The MoJ say other suitable sites have been looked into and there are none.
A Public Inquiry is continuing after the government department appealed Harborough District Council’s decision to refuse permission for the prison, because of the impact it would have on the countryside.
Harborough MP Neil O’Brien voiced his concerns to the planning inspector at yesterday’s hearing and spoke to HFM:
Campaigners gathered outside the Symington Building Pic: HFM
The Inquiry at the Symington Building has so far heard evidence from a number of people opposed to the prison, including members of Gartree Action Group, while the MoJ argue it is a suitable location.
Speaking on behalf of the MoJ, Robert Walton KC, told the hearing alternative sites had been considered:
