Kier, in collaboration with the UK's Ministry of Justice (MoJ), has marked the commencement of construction on a new house block at a Category B men's prison, His Majesty's Prison (HMP) Bullingdon, near Bicester, Oxfordshire.  

This forms part of the Accelerated Houseblocks Delivery Programme alliance contract, awarded to Kier and Wates.  

The alliance was procured through the Crown Commercial Service Framework. 

The project will see the prison's capacity increase to more than 1,300, adding an additional 247 spaces. 

The new four-storey, fully electric, X-shaped T60 house block aligns with the MoJ's commitment to reducing carbon emissions through energy-efficient design.  

It marks the 15th house block Kier has developed, following the build at HMP Five Wells and ongoing projects at HMP Millsike and HMP Elmley. 

In March this year, Kier commenced expansion work at HMP Elmley, a Category B and C prison for adult males on the Isle of Sheppey. 

Employing Modern Methods of Construction (MMC), the latest house block components will be manufactured off-site.   

The expansion at HMP Bullingdon also includes the construction of a workshop and a programme building to provide prisoners with skills to aid rehabilitation and reduce reoffending rates.  

Additional facilities will comprise a two-storey administrative building and an extension to the physical recreation area. 

Kier Construction group managing director Stuart Togwell said: “We are delighted that work to expand HMP Bullingdon for the Ministry of Justice has now begun.  

“This ceremony marks the start of our journey to providing improved facilities and more space for staff and prisoners.” 

The project is expected to generate local employment opportunities, including apprenticeships, as part of Kier's commitment to supporting communities.