The next stages of a planning application to build a new prison at Gartree have been given the green light by Harborough District Council.

Councillors approved proposals for the appearance and layout of the new prison submitted by the Ministry of Justice (MOJ).

The committee also agreed to delegate authority to a designated council officer to approve planning conditions relating to specific issues including drainage and environmental considerations. These will be discharged in agreement with the Planning Committee Chairman and following receipt of the necessary technical approvals from the expert technical organisations as needed.

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In April 2022, Harborough District Council's planning committee refused the outline application. An appeal from the Ministry of Justice against the decision was received in June 2022.

On Wednesday 15 November 2023 the government announced The Secretary of State's decision that the Appeal from the MOJ should be allowed and outline permission should be granted, subject to conditions.

The MOJ is expected to start work on site later this year.