06 August 2008
A shortlist of potential sites for a new prison in Wales was published by Prisons Minister, David Hanson MP today.
This publication fulfils the commitment given by the Minister last year to publish a list of potential sites to stimulate a public debate. The list includes sites in both South and North Wales. Interested parties have until 31 October 2008 to provide comment.
The final decision on a proposed site will be made once all feedback has been considered, taking into account the strategic need for prison places in Wales. The proposed site will then be subject to planning permission.
The timing for the provision of a new prison in Wales has yet to be determined. The current prison capacity programme includes the provision of additional male prison places at HMP Parc in Bridgend.
David Hanson MP said:
'I have been pleased with the constructive comments about the possible location of a new prison in Wales which have been received already and I look forward to receiving comments on the shortlist. This is an opportunity for any interested party to comment on the suitability of the proposed site for any development.'
Notes to Editors
1. A copy of the shortlist is attached. It includes an introduction setting out the background to the site search exercise, a summary of the strategic need and comments on each of the sites listed.
2. The Welsh Assembly Government, Secretary of State for Wales, relevant local MPs for the constituencies in which potential sites are located, the North Wales Criminal Justice Board and certain other interested bodies have also received letters inviting their comments.
3. Notwithstanding this consultation on the search for a new prison site for Wales, Ministers will continue to consider options for improving the overall strategy to reduce offending and deliver an integrated intervention and resettlement service for Wales.
- Shortlist of potential sites for a prison in Wales [PDF 0.02mb, 4 pages]