Wedoany.com Report-Oct. 15, Kier, a UK-based construction firm, has been awarded contracts worth approximately £250 million to expand HMP Northumberland and HMP Lancaster Farms. The projects, part of the Ministry of Justice’s Small Secure Houseblocks Programme (SSHP) Alliance, will add 480 new prison places across both facilities, with completion expected by early 2027.

Each site will receive four new houseblocks, along with upgraded site-wide infrastructure and enhanced ancillary facilities. These developments align with the UK government’s £14 billion initiative to increase prison capacity by 14,000 places by 2031. Kier’s latest contracts bring its total to 30 houseblocks delivered for the Ministry of Justice and Scottish Prison Service in recent years, reinforcing its leadership in the UK’s justice sector construction.

Kier has a strong track record, having completed HMP Five Wells and HMP Millsike, and is currently working on expansions at HMPs Elmley, Bullingdon, and Channings Wood. The company’s expertise in delivering secure, modern facilities supports the government’s goal of enhancing prison infrastructure to meet future needs.

In addition to construction, Kier’s Making Ground scheme promotes rehabilitation and employment opportunities. Recently, 29 prisoners at HMP Channings Wood completed the ‘Hard Hat Ready’ training course, equipping them with skills for construction careers. Over the past three years, the initiative has facilitated jobs for 75 former prisoners and created 64 temporary licence placements, contributing to positive social outcomes.

The expansions at HMP Northumberland and HMP Lancaster Farms will enhance capacity while incorporating modern design standards to improve living conditions and operational efficiency. Kier’s ongoing collaboration with the Ministry of Justice emphasizes sustainable construction practices and community impact, aligning with broader goals to modernize the UK’s justice infrastructure.

These projects highlight Kier’s role in addressing the growing demand for prison spaces while fostering skill development and employment opportunities for individuals within the justice system. By integrating training programs like Making Ground, Kier supports not only infrastructure growth but also the reintegration of former prisoners into the workforce, contributing to long-term societal benefits.