Written question asked by John Howell (Conservative) on Wednesday, 2 June 2010, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 7 June 2010. It was answered by Crispin Blunt (Conservative) on Monday, 7 June 2010 on behalf of the Ministry of Justice.

Huntercombe Young Offender Institution

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice what the timetable is for changes to the future status of Huntercombe Young Offenders Institution; and what consultation he plans to have with (a) residents local to the institution and (b) its staff.

Answer: The de-commissioning of HMYOI Huntercombe has commenced and is taking place over the coming weeks to ensure a safe and smooth transition for the existing prisoner population. A project group has been set up and is meeting to consider the essential work to be completed in the establishment in regard to staffing profiles, budgets, contractual requirements and any structural and physical adjustments deemed necessary prior to re-role as a Category C Male prison at the end of 2010.Senior NOMS officials will meet local residents to reassure them about the re-role in the near future. Once final decisions are made in regard to the proposals under discussion, full consultation will take place with all stakeholders, including all staff and local residents.

Secondary information