Construction opportunities in the expanding prison estate

While much of the public sector construction pipeline has experienced a quieter period recently, the prison estate has taken centre stage.

With significant public investment committed through the New Prisons Programme, the prison estate has become a standout area for construction growth, accounting for an estimated 40% of public sector start-on-site activity in the first quarter of 2025.

This shift reflects a long-term government commitment to increasing prison capacity across England and Wales. The Prison Capacity Strategy (Project ID: 15378582) outlines ambitious plans to deliver 20,000 new prison places by 2031, with a major portion of that capacity now moving into early works or advanced planning stages.

New Funding and Programme Momentum

A recent boost to the programme has come in the form of Treasury approval for three additional prisons, representing an increase of around 14,000 prison places. These schemes are a clear signal of the sector’s future trajectory and present a strong pipeline of opportunity for contractors, suppliers, and modular specialists alike.

Key Prison Projects Driving Growth

HMP Gartree 2 – Leicestershire

Glenigan Project ID: 21301670
Value: £300M
Contractor: Wates

Wates are currently undertaking early enabling works at the site for HMP Gartree 2, located adjacent to the existing HMP Gartree facility (pictured). Full construction is anticipated to begin later in 2025. This project is one of the flagships of the New Prisons Programme, utilising modern methods of construction (MMC) and a standardised design approach.

HMP Grendon Springhill – Buckinghamshire

Glenigan Project ID: 21094516
Contractor: Laing O’Rourke (formerly ISG)

Originally awarded to ISG, this project has now been taken over by Laing O’Rourke, who will lead the construction of a new facility adjacent to HMP Grendon and HMP Springhill. This change of contractor is indicative of the scale and complexity of the project and reflects the strategic importance of this development within the wider prison expansion programme.

HMP Wymott 2 – Lancashire

Glenigan Project ID: 21281100
Contractor: To be appointed
Procurement: Expected via Alliance 4 Prisons

After a successful planning appeal in 2024, HMP Wymott 2 is now cleared to proceed. The prison will be located near HMP Garth, and the main contractor appointment is expected shortly. Likely candidates include members of the Alliance 4 Prisons framework, which features Kier, Wates, and Laing O’Rourke.

A Consistent and Scalable Approach

All three of these major developments will adopt a standardised building design and incorporate off-site construction methods. This modular, repeatable approach not only allows for efficiency in delivery but also aligns with the Government’s push toward sustainable construction practices.

Conclusion: A Sector Worth Watching

With healthcare construction on a temporary pause, the prison estate has emerged as a key driver for public sector construction activity in 2025. The momentum behind the New Prisons Programme offers clear opportunities for construction firms, especially those with expertise in modular building, large-scale infrastructure, and secure facility design.

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