Kier starts work on HMP Elmley expansion

Kier has been appointed by the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) to expand HMP Elmley, on the Isle of Sheppey in Kent.

Work has started at the Category B and C adult male prison to build a new block to provide an additional  247 prison places.

The project also includes 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 £500m 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. 

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.

Kier is committed to leaving a lasting legacy in the communities it works in, and has committed to delivering sustainable learning and employment opportunities for prison leavers and local people throughout the project.

Local supply chain partners will be key to the success of the project and the team will focus on supporting small and medium-sized firms.

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.   

Anthony Irving, managing director of Kier Western and Wales, said: “The commencement of HMP Elmley is a significant milestone for the MOJ’s Accelerated Houseblock Delivery Programme. 

“The project will not only deliver additional prison places but improve the overall estate at HMP Elmley. The programme will also leave a legacy in the community through the use of regional supply chain partners and the creation of sustainable employment and learning opportunities for prison leavers”. 

The start of work at HMP Elmley follows the successful delivery of the site’s enabling works, which were completed in January. 

The project team for the main works includes, MoJ, Kier, Mace, Gleeds, Wates, Baker Hicks and Pick Everard.