Public Inquiry Begins Into ‘Super Prison’ Plan

Campaigners against a ‘super prison’ being built near Market Harborough have held a protest as a Public Inquiry into the plan begins.

Around 50 people gathered outside the District Council’s Symington Building, where an independent planning inspector is chairing the hearing.

Campaigners from Gartree Action Group are going head to head with the Ministry Of Justice, after the government department appealed the council’s decision to refuse permission for the 1,700 inmate jail being built on land near HMP Gartree.

The plan for the £300m category B prison was was unanimously rejected by councillors in April, because of the affect it would have on the countryside and as it was in contravention to the District Council’s Local Plan and the Lubenham Neighbourhood Plan.

Campaigners also have concerns about the impact the new prison would have on local roads, with around 600 staff working there.

People protesting this morning spoke to HFM about their concerns and the Inquiry:

Campaigners gathered outside the Symington Building  Pic: HFM

The Gartree Action Group raised over £20,000 to fund legal representation at the hearing, which is set to last 8 days.

Diana Cook is chair of the Gartree Action Group:

Campaigners gathered outside the Symington Building  Pic: HFM

The MoJ says the plan will bring great investment to the area, putting £75 million into the local economy.