PLANS to expand a prison by adding two new cell blocks "to meet rising demand" are set to become a reality.

The proposals for HMP Hindley would see accommodation built for 494 prisoners. 

Hindley is a prison and young offender institution (YOI) in Bickershaw with a maximum capacity of 640 – this proposal would see that capacity increase to more than 1000.

This work is part of an expansion programme carried out by the Ministry of Justice.

It is hoped that this could help boost rehabilitation and reduce reoffending, provide improved security and additional training facilities to help offenders find employment upon release.

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Wigan Council previously advised the applicant that before the proposals were submitted, that this application would create inappropriate development in a Green Belt area and very special circumstances would need to be demonstrated for this to get approval.

A report now suggests that the extent of harm is significantly limited by the existence of the existing prison site, fence line and buildings, the retention of trees and landscaping and incorporation of new landscaping.

Two new car parks are due to be built as well and would create a total 494 parking spaces to serve the prison staff and visitors. A report suggests that this expansion is required in order to meet increased levels of demand in the next decade.

“The prison population is currently forecast to increase over the next 10 years, reaching unprecedented levels by the end of the decade,” a planning statement said. “The MoJ and its executive agency, HMPPS are embarking on the most ambitious programme of prison expansion in over a century, delivering 20,000 additional prison places through a portfolio of programmes and projects representing an investment of £3.8 billion.

“These new places will be delivered through a programme that offers the taxpayer value for money and will also support suppliers and builders across the country. As part of this programme a need has been identified to provide additional accommodation at Category C Prisons.

“HMP Hindley was identified as a prison which required additional accommodation. This planning application would provide an additional up to 494 bed spaces (for up to 494 prisoners) at HMP Hindley.”

It is expected that the Planning Committee, upon making their decision in Wigan Town Hall on July 12, would request £100,000 from the applicants towards playing pitch improvement works in the borough and a £2500 contribution towards monitoring of the travel plan for the development. The plans have been recommended for approval.

A Ministry of Justice spokesman said: “Plans to expand HMP Hindley as part of our £4bn programme will enhance access to support services and help to maintain family ties, which are vital to reducing reoffending.”