UK’s New £253 Million ‘Mega Prison’ Features Bar-Free Windows And River Views

New photographs show inside the UK's first privately run 'mega-prison'.

HMP Five Wells looks a bit different to traditional prisons, featuring barless windows, shorter corridors and impressive views across a fishing lake and the River Nene.

Splash News

Twitter

The £253 million prison will be able to house up to 1,680 inmates, making it the biggest in England.

The category C jail, which is in Northamptonshire, aims to be a 'modern, efficient prison estate that is fit for the future' and will focus on rehabilitation.

While some have questioned the use of windows without bars, a spokesperson for the prison said the special toughened glass used is actually more secure.

The spokesperson said: "Secure, sealed windows with toughened glass and narrow vents will be used in all cells in future prisons and is just one of the measures being put in place to help stop drugs and illicit mobile phones.

"These windows are difficult to break, making them more effective in stopping prisoners from accessing contraband."

Sharing photos of the inside of the prison, its official Twitter count said: "Been a busy day on site today but took the opportunity to grab a couple of pics for you.

"One of a double room, there are 84 in total, and one of the single rooms with the FANTASTIC barless window albeit not the best view at present #bestprisonever."

Twitter

The prison is being built on the site of HMP Wellingborough, which closed back in 2012.

Structural work on HMP Five Wells has been completed, with builders now sorting out the inside with plans to have it up, running and accepting prisoners in January.

It will be run by private security business G4s.

The prison's buildings have been designed in the shape of crosses rather than the usual K-shaped formation traditionally used in prison blocks.

Splash News

The roof will feature solar panels, while outside there will be four football pitches and a gardening area, so inmates can get a bit of exercise.

There are also plans for a central hub for education, vocational training and social facilities.

Topics: UK News

Claire Reid

Claire is a journalist at LADbible who, after dossing around for a few years, went to Liverpool John Moores University. She graduated with a degree in Journalism and a whole load of debt. When not writing words in exchange for money she is usually at home watching serial killer documentaries surrounded by cats. You can contact Claire at [email protected]

@ClaireReid19