Construction firm Kier has started major expansion work at HMP Elmley on the Isle of Sheppey in Kent.

The company was appointed by the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) to build a fully electric T60 Houseblock that will provide an additional 247 prison places, as well as providing new fully electric ancillary buildings, including a new prisoner workshop. There will also be a refurbishment and extension to the existing kitchen facilities.

The expansion of HMP Elmley is part of the MoJ's £500 million Accelerated Houseblocks Delivery Programme (AHDP), which is part of the Government’s plan to deliver 20,000 new prison places. HMP Elmley is the first of the Kier and Wates alliance contract projects to commence main works on site, with work set to complete by the end of 2026.

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The innovative X-shaped T60 Houseblock design supports the MoJ's continued commitment to reducing carbon emissions through efficient design. It will be highly energy efficient and built using Modern Methods of Construction (MMC), with components manufactured off site.

Local supply chain partners will be key to the success of the project and the team will focus on supporting Small & Medium Enterprises (SMEs). There will also be regular community engagement through volunteering, hosting local career events and supporting the employment of apprentices, graduates and trainees in the local construction industry.