HMP Gartree.

A successful transition.

HMP Gartree is a major ‘lifers’ prison in Market Harborough, near Leicester. The project involved a major redevelopment and extension programme. As well as a significant security upgrade, our work involved two new-build 120-inmate accommodation units, workshop building, and central kitchen, as well as numerous upgraded and/or remodelled ancillary buildings.

Supporting security.

We had to design solutions that would allow for the prison to be operational and fully secure while the extensive upgrade works were carried out. The security aspect was particularly complex, and included a full upgrade for each existing accommodation unit and new control room. We worked on these site-wide security provisions, designing the front-end systems integration and supporting infrastructure.

Agile adaption.

We also delivered the project during a transitional period between the traditional procurement model and the new Strategic Alliance framework. We had initially been appointed under a conventional appointment to provide design services for HMPS. Part way through the project the Strategic Alliance framework came into being. This meant we were client-side on certain elements of the project and constructor side for other elements.

However, our knowledge and experience associated with the custodial sector, as well as understanding the various procurement methods required to deliver the project, meant we could successfully work with both the client team and constructor team.