Closure of Dartmoor prison will be worrying for all affected

His Majesty’s Prison Dartmoor has been temporarily closed due to the presence of unacceptable levels of radon.

The prison is to be closed for up to two years with prisoners and staff due to be relocated elsewhere.

Sue Ferns, Senior Deputy General Secretary of Prospect, which represents chaplains, psychologists and non-technical managers in prisons, said:

“This will be worrying for everyone at HMP Dartmoor. Prospect has been working with HMPPS to minimise the impact on our members employed both at Dartmoor and across HMPPS but we remain concerned about the long-term impact the closure may have on the wider organisation.

“Prisons are a uniquely challenging environment in which to work, made even harder by overcrowding which will only get worse with the closure of Dartmoor.

“We welcome the commitment of the new Government to work with Prospect to improve rehabilitation by investment in existing prisons, professional staff and more modern prisons. This important investment will protect the public and transforms lives.”