Construction has begun on 152 new prison places at HMP Kirklevington Grange near Yarm. These Rapid Deployment Cells are part of a wider government initiative to expand prison capacity across the country.
The government is investing £4.7 billion to create 14,000 additional prison places by 2031, with over 3,300 already delivered since July 2024. Catherine McKinnell, Minister for Prisons, Probation and Reducing Reoffending, stated that the aim is to ensure there is always a cell for those who pose a danger to the public.
Prisoners from Kirklevington Grange are working on the foundations of the new units, with plans to increase their participation. This initiative aims to provide offenders with skills, experience, and qualifications. Construction partner Reds10 is also employing prisoners on temporary release to manufacture units and has permanently employed three prison leavers.
The project's groundbreaking event took place on Thursday, 10 September, involving prison leaders, the office of the Cleveland Police and Crime Commissioner, and Reds10. Kelly Pearce, Governor of HMP Kirklevington Grange, highlighted that the expansion will support more prisoners in preparing for release and resettlement.