§ Helen JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many sites in the North-West region were considered as possible sites for prison building prior to the selection of a site at Winwick; and what discussions were held with Warrington Borough Council and other local authorities prior to the selection of this site. [23316]
§ Ms Quin[holding answer 16 January 1998]: As part of a national review, 81 sites have been assessed in the North- West. There were no discussions with Warrington Borough Council prior to the selection of Winwick Hospital as a possible site for the construction of a new prison.
§ Helen JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what criteria are currently used by the Prison Service to decide between various possible sites for prison development; and what plans he has to change those criteria. [23315]
509W
§ Ms Quin[holding answer 16 January 1998]: New prisons must be located conveniently for the centres of population or regional catchment areas that they will be required to serve. A site's shape, size, topography and the availability of services must support an economic and practical development. The ownership and availability of land are key factors in choosing a potential site. Crown-owned land is considered along with commercially available sites. There are no plans to change these criteria.