Stocken Prison in Stretton to have new houseblock built for 206 inmates as part of Government expansion plan

A Rutland prison is one of four to expand as part of a Government plan to transform the prison estate and create 10,000 modern prison places.

Stocken Prison in Stretton will gain a new houseblock for an additional 206 prisoners.

A new block - the Newton wing - opened at Stocken last year, which also created 206 places - taking the overall capacity to 1,056.

Planning permission will be sought for the extension and work is due to start after a contractor is selected through a tendering process.

The first prisoners in the new block are expected to arrive at Stocken in 2023.

Stocken Prison governor Neil Thomas said: “HMP Stocken provided 206 new modern, safe, decent and secure prison places with the successful opening of Newton wing in June 2019.

“Building on this success I am delighted that Stocken has been chosen for further expansion to deliver places as part of the Government’s commitment to build 10,000 additional modern, safe, decent and secure prison places.

“Its construction will support employment in the local community; it’s a real vote of confidence in our prison.”

He said people would be consulted during the planning process, adding: “The local community has been incredibly supportive of HMP Stocken as it has expanded over the years.

“Quite rightly members of the community will want to have their voices heard in shaping any future development, particularly those that live nearby.

“We promise to listen intently and we will make sure that everyone has a part to play in shaping the future success of Rutland’s only prison.”

Mr Thomas said he expected the opening of the new block to create up to 50 new jobs, as well as boosting the local construction industry.

He also said he hoped people across Rutland and Stamford would consider a career in the prison service.

He added: “For the prison we will be providing modern, safe and decent spaces that support an ethos of work and learning, ultimately that creates better citizens and reduces reoffending.

“For the community, it brings employment and important support for the local businesses that supply us.”

Stocken Prison is a category C male-only prison.

HMPs Guys Marsh in Dorset and Rye Hill in Warwickshire will also benefit from additional houseblocks, while High Down in Surrey will receive a new workshop.

Construction work at the prisons will cost about £200m.