Minister opens extension at Lowdham Grange prison
Justice Minister, David Hanson has opened a new wing at Serco's Lowdham Grange prison near Nottingham. The new development, funded by the Ministry of Justice, houses 128 additional prisoners in the Category B prison as well as providing additional education, training, offence reduction and facilities for multi-faith worship.
The new wing brings the total capacity up to 670 at the prison that was built, and operated by Serco since 1998 on a 25 year PFI contract.
Mr Hanson said, "I can see an amazing amount of pride and work effort at Lowdham Grange prison. My visit today has been a very impressive experience."
Guy Baulf, Serco Director of HMP Lowdham Grange said, "As well as new accommodation, this new facility provides essential education and training resources for prisoners to give them better opportunities on release from custody and reduce the temptation to re-offend. This project was delivered 4 weeks early as a result of the successful partnership between Serco, the National Offender Management Service and the construction company, Skanska."
Audrey Stocks from the Independent Monitoring Board, who attended the visit said, "The new wings are very much welcomed and will contribute to the positive and continuing development of HMP Lowdham Grange."