MoJ Scraps Plan To Expand HMP Gartree

The Ministry of Justice has scrapped plans to expand Gartree Prison near Market Harborough.

The proposal to build a new four-storey houseblock for 240 prisoners was unveiled in 2021 and a planning application was submitted to Harborough District Council.

The decision not to progress with the expansion comes as groundworks continue ahead of the construction of a new 1,700-inmate jail on land adjacent to the prison.

Gartree Prison Pic: Clive Mason

The MoJ say the move will not impact the government’s plan to create 14,000 new prison places nationwide.

A Ministry of Justice spokesperson said: “Whilst a decision has been taken not to progress with the expansion of HMP Gartree at this time, an expansion may be considered again in future.

“Should this be the case, MoJ will undertake any relevant consultation and planning applications necessary.

“This decision will reduce the impact of construction on those living nearby and will not impact the plans for 14,000 new prison places.”

The plan had also included an extension to the prison’s segregation unit, kitchen, sports hall and staff car park.