The UK Ministry of Justice (MoJ) has appointed three construction companies to develop around 1,200 new prison places across the country.

Kier, Laing O’Rourke, and Wates will deliver these prison places with an emphasis on security, protection, and rehabilitation.

The prison spaces will be in new house blocks built using a standard layout and construction approach aimed to maximise quality, efficiency, and sustainability using modern methods of construction.

A spokesperson for the alliance said: “This vital project will deliver much-needed prison places while also providing valuable training and employment opportunities to those leaving prison.

“Working in partnership together and using standardised designs, modern methods of construction, and a shared strategic supply chain enables us to drive efficiency and deliver significant value across multiple concurrent projects.

“We welcome this pioneering approach from the Ministry of Justice and look forward to working with them on this programme that will see the delivery of further safe, modern, sustainable, and fit-for-purpose accommodation for the justice system.”

There will be 60 single-occupancy rooms in each house block, as well as widened kitchens and other amenities.

Several sites will have study spaces and small industrial units where inmates may attend professional courses, including bricklaying. Prison leavers will also receive training and work possibilities.

The three companies will begin the pre-construction phase shortly.

Construction work is expected to start next year, with the house blocks ready for operation in 2025.