HL Deb 07 November 1996 vol 575 cc69-70WA
Lord Acton

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What progress has been made in obtaining planning permission for the proposed Secure Training Centre at Medomsley in Durham; when contractors will be invited to bid to run this centre; and what is their estimate of the likely opening date.

Baroness Blatch

The Home Office appealed to the Department of the Environment in October 1995 against the failure of the local planning authority, Derwentside District Council, to determine the application for outline planning permission within the prescribed time period, as agreed to be extended. The appeal was conducted by means of a public inquiry held in June 1996. The planning inspector reported to the Secretary of State for the Environment in August 1996 and I understand that a decision on the appeal is expected shortly. The outcome of the appeal will determine when the procurement process can start.

Lord Acton

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What progress the contractors have made in obtaining detailed planning permission to build secure training centres at Gringley in Nottinghamshire and Cookham Wood in Kent, in commencing building work, and in recruiting and training staff; and what is their estimate of the likely opening date of these centres.

Baroness Blatch

A consortium led by Group 4/Tarmac has been announced as the Government's preferred bidder for contracts to design, build, manage and finance a secure training centre at both these sites. Final contract negotiations with this consortium are currently underway. I understand that Group 4/Tarmac have already obtained planning permission for their designs at the Cookham Wood site but that an application in respect of Gringley has been refused. Building work and the recruitment of staff will not commence until contracts are signed. Opening dates will not be settled until contracts are signed.

Lord Acton

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether a site has been identified for a secure training centre to serve the south-west of England and south Wales.

Baroness Blatch

No. A site is actively being sought.