The groundbreaking ceremony at HMP Bullingdon marks a significant step in expanding prison capacity.
- Official ground was broken by Kier at HMP Bullingdon on 30th August, initiating construction efforts.
- The new structure is set to increase accommodation at the prison by 247 spaces.
- Kier’s involvement underscores its continuing strategic role in the UK’s prison expansion programme.
- This project is part of a broader alliance effort aimed at enhancing prison facilities across several locations.
Kier, in collaboration with the Ministry of Justice, held a groundbreaking ceremony at HMP Bullingdon on the 30th of August, marking the commencement of an important construction project. This ceremony symbolises not only the physical beginning of work but also highlights the ongoing development in enhancing national prison infrastructure.
Situated near Bicester in Oxfordshire, HMP Bullingdon is a Category B men’s prison. The construction project involves a substantial investment exceeding £100 million for a new four-storey, X-shaped T60 houseblock. Designed to boost the prison’s capacity by 247 spaces, the new facility will leverage modern construction techniques involving precast blocks and panels fabricated off-site, which enhances both efficiency and sustainability in construction.
Kier’s engagement at HMP Bullingdon represents its 15th project of similar nature, following the completion of HMP Five Wells in Wellingborough and ongoing projects at HMP Millsike and HMP Elmley. Recently, Kier achieved a significant milestone by securing a £200 million contract to expand HMP Channings Wood in Devon, reinforcing its stature as a pivotal entity in prison infrastructure development.
The project also includes constructing a two-storey administration block and extending the physical recreation area, further enriching the facilities offered at HMP Bullingdon. Kier Construction Group’s Managing Director, Stuart Togwell, emphasised the value of the project, highlighting the robust relationship with the Ministry of Justice and their commitment to delivering projects sustainably and efficiently.
This expansion is part of the Accelerated Houseblocks Delivery Programme (AHDP), an alliance contract awarded to Kier and Wates in June 2022. This £500 million initiative, procured through the Crown Commercial Service framework, designates Kier for key expansions at HMP Bullingdon, Channings Wood, and Elmley, while Wates handles projects at HMPs Highpoint, Wayland, and Hindley.
The expansion at HMP Bullingdon reinforces Kier’s strategic role in the UK’s prison infrastructure development.
