HC Deb 08 June 2004 vol 422 c329W
Mr. Oaten

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many new prisons have been commissioned since May 1997. [172408]

Paul Goggins

Nine new prisons have been commissioned in England and Wales since May 1997; seven are operating (Altcourse, Ashfield, Dovegate, Forest Bank, Lowdham Grange, Pare and Rye Hill) and two are under construction, Bronzefield (to open in June 2004) and Peterborough (to open in March 2005).

Tom Cox

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what new prisons are planned for England and Wales which will be opened within the next three years; where these prisons will be located; and if he will make a statement. [173290]

Paul Goggins

Two new private sector prisons providing 1,290 places are due to be opened within the next three years. Her Majesty's Prison Bronzefield at Ashford (near Heathrow), and Peterborough will open in June 2004 and March 2005 respectively.