Wates Group has signed the main works order with the Ministry of Justice for a major expansion project at HMP Wayland in Norfolk, set to deliver hundreds of new prison places and modern facilities to support rehabilitation.

The scheme includes the construction of a new four-storey houseblock providing 247 additional places, alongside a 1,200-capacity kitchen to serve the entire prison. Plans also feature classrooms, a light industrial workshop, an all-weather sports pitch, and outdoor exercise areas designed to support prisoner skills development and rehabilitation.

The expansion forms part of the government's wider prison building programme, which aims to create 14,000 extra places by 2031.

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In line with its social value commitments, Wates will employ 10 prison leavers directly and through its supply chain, support apprenticeships, and invest in local small businesses. The project will also provide training opportunities for prisoners and workers on site, helping to reduce reoffending and support sustainable employment.

The new houseblock will use pre-manufactured components and a standardised design to improve efficiency, and will be fully electric. It is targeting a BREEAM Excellent rating in support of the Ministry of Justice's sustainability goals.

Sachia Thompson, Deputy Director of the Accelerated Houseblocks Delivery Programme at HMPPS, said: "We are pleased to announce the next step in our expansion plans at HMP Wayland and look forward to working closely with Wates over the next three years.

"It is important progress in our ambitious plans to increase capacity across the estate."

Other key delivery partners include SES Engineering Services, SES Manufacturing, FP McCann and Aden Contracting, with design consultants BakerHicks and Pick Everard. The project, procured via the CCS Framework, is due to complete by the end of 2028.

Separately, Wates is also delivering a £70m fire safety improvement project across the existing prison estate, scheduled for completion in February 2029.