|

John Baron MP meets Justice Minister and wins assurances over Wickford prison plans

18 May 2009

MP welcomes consultation pledge but says local view must be respected.

Late last week, John Baron MP met Justice Minister David Hanson MP to discuss plans for a new prison at Runwell near Wickford. The Ministry of Justice were forced to retreat from plans for enormous 'Titan' prisons and publish a list of sites for smaller jails following John's long-running Freedom of Information Act campaign. John has been calling for transparency on the plans so that local people can have their say – a view upheld by the Information Commissioner, who ordered Ministers to disclose a list of possible sites.

John said:

"I had a useful meeting with David Hanson in which I pressed the need for a proper consultation on plans for a new jail at Runwell. It is vital that local people have their say and are listened to by the Government on issues ranging from the impact on the local environment to job opportunities."

"In response, the Minister promised a public exhibition of plans with civil servants on-hand to answer residents' questions as well as a full planning consultation through Chelmsford Council. It is important that Basildon District residents get their say as well as those living over the boundary."

"However, I am concerned that the Minister refused to rule out a Government appeal in case the planning decision goes against them. I will continue to press him to accept the will of local people, whatever that may be."