Principal contractor and Alliance member constructing 1,500 additional prison spaces and associated infrastructure

Delivering certainty through Modern Methods of Construction: leveraging our delivery model to provide capacity at speed for the Ministry of Justice

Located next to the existing Category B and D men’s prisons at HMP Grendon and Springhill, this new facility will offer 1,500 additional places and related infrastructure. It is part of the Alliance for New Prisons (A4NP), contributing to the Ministry of Justice’s programme to create 20,000 new places, with nearly 6,500 places being delivered across four prisons.

Using in-house delivery to support efficient, safe delivery

The A4NP employs a platform-DfMA strategy for houseblock design across the programme. Lessons learnt from other prisons in the programme will be integrated into the HMP Grendon design during the PCSA phase, while site-specific design is informed by survey data. The houseblock design incorporates precast columns, slabs, walls, facade panels and riser modules, all of which can be manufactured, delivered and installed by our specialist internal teams.

Responding with agility to de-risk the programme

The HMP Grendon site presents complex ecological constraints critical to the programme and linked to the discharge of planning conditions. Laing O’Rourke was engaged in October 2024 to swiftly mobilise a team to undertake habitat creation and survey activities before key season-specific ecological survey windows closed. We commenced on site in December 2024, constructing hibernacula, clearing vegetation, and advancing ground investigation and archaeological surveys. Drawing on our recent, relevant experience from similar projects at HMP Garth & Wymott for A4NP, and the nearby East West Rail project, we collaborated effectively with Buckinghamshire County Council and Natural England.

Simultaneously, we mobilised our design team to review existing site-specific information and prepare for the Reference Design transfer process from HMP Gartree. We are currently collaborating with the team to develop the design information necessary for the Reserved Matters Application (RMA), the next crucial design submission to the Local Authority. This submission will facilitate the relocation of an existing badger sett and enable programme-critical utilities diversions, paving the way for site enabling works and logistics setup.

Working collaboratively to prioritise safety and security

Due to the rapid pace of our appointment and mobilisation, we have prioritised fostering an open and collaborative relationship with the Establishment from the outset. This approach is essential for ensuring efficient, safe and secure operations. We actively participate in 420 meetings to discuss upcoming works, logistics, vetting, and safety. Using 3D models and presentations, we effectively communicate our intended actions and access strategies for the workface. As we advance early site activities, we remain committed to working closely with the Establishment, refining the logistics plan for the main construction phase.