Shanco is trusted to deliver groundworks packages by Tier 1 contractors across the UK justice sector.

We have a security-cleared workforce experienced in controlled environments, delivering complex groundworks that others avoid. Our repeat clients reflect our commitment to quality, and we support your team from tender to construction to ensure successful delivery.
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Experience where it counts

Shanco provides comprehensive groundworks solutions, tailored to support the unique requirements of the Ministry of Justice.
8

Prison Projects

Successfully completed eight major prison construction projects.
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EL1 Cleared Operatives

Thirty-three operatives
pre-cleared with EL1 clearance.
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CTC Cleared Staff

Twenty-Three staff pre-cleared with CTC security vetting.
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Strategic Alliance Partners

Repeat-business relationships with major providers in the MoJ marketplace
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Years Experience

5 years' experience in live establishments across HMPPS estate
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Adapted for MOJ requirements

Explore Shanco’s tailored groundworks solutions that ensure security, efficiency, and precision in prison and national security environments.

Security clearances in hand

Saving you time and mitigating risks in mobilisation, our team has EL1, CTC, and BPSS clearances in hand. We have worked within the restrictions of SALs and 4.20s and will tailor our proposal to suit the restrictions of the Establishment.

Fire Safety Improvements

We have delivered cross site groundworks packages for FSI projects across the UK. We recognise the importance of these life safety critical projects and will work collaboratively with you to support on time, compliant delivery.

Expert Resource & Programme
Coordination

Our Planners know what it takes to win MoJ tenders. We support programme, methodology, and logistics at all stages, excelling in complex solutions and advising your teams on options.

Pre-Construction Support

Early contractor involvement is key to getting the programme and methodology right. With bid teams under pressure, we support submissions with tailored content and added value.

Consistently
Excellent Nationwide

Our operations span the UK, delivering consistent, high-quality outcomes in national security projects, no matter the location.

Commitment to Safety and Environment

Sustainability is embedded in our culture and work. We’re open to ROTL and prison leaver employment & will always play our part in delivering your social value commitments.
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Case Studies

47

February 20, 2024

Shanco Helps Deliver Modular Building for HMP Wymott

Shanco has completed the groundworks for a new modular building at a HM Prison in Preston, which will create additional space for staff and offices. The project was completed on behalf of PMA (Services) Ltd., which specialises in refurbishments for the Ministry of Justice.

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79

April 22, 2024

Complex HMP Hatfield Category D Facility Expansion Complete with No Disruptions

Discover Shanco's achievements in expanding the HMP Category D facility, overcoming complex engineering challenges to deliver high-quality work while prioritizing safety and efficiency.

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39

April 30, 2024

EV-ready Car Park & Efficient Street Lights for HMP Hatfield

As part of its commitment to sustainability, the MOJ built a new 30-space car park with integrated street lighting and EV charging points alongside Shanco’s simultaneous works within the facility. This case study outlines the planning, design and implementation of the project, highlighting the benefits and challenges faced during its execution.

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46

May 7, 2024

Installation of New Site-wide Services to HMP Sudbury Coinciding with Shanco Works for Expansion

This case study will highlight the successful completion of the site-wide service trench within the programme, resulting in positive feedback from the site manager.

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92

June 17, 2024

Navigating Logistics and Strict Restrictions: HMP Moorlands Modular Laundry Foundations

Shanco, renowned for its expertise in groundworks and large number of operatives with Security Clearance, was contracted to provide essential groundwork services and new service trenching for a CAT C Prison facility. 

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92

March 26, 2025

Infrastructure Development at HMP Moorlands

Discover how HMP Moorlands successfully implemented critical infrastructure to support a new forensics laboratory. This case study explores the construction of a high-security car park and drainage system, including an attenuation tank, SuDS-compliant solutions, and eco-friendly grasscrete parking. Learn how meticulous planning, security compliance, and phased execution ensured the project was completed on time and within budget, enhancing both functionality and security. Read more about the challenges, solutions, and outcomes of this complex infrastructure development project.

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Customer Testimonials

  • Dale Green, Project Manager

    This is my second time working with Shanco. As this is a live prison, it’s taken a momentous effort to organise staff bookings and deliveries, and a good team effort has been achieved due to their positive attitude. Access/clearance has been a challenge, and the coordination of deliveries by Shanco has been fantastic. This has been such a crucial part of the running of the site, it has made my job far easier... We have faced many challenges together as a team, their proactive approach has been of great assistance, and the project is ahead of programme thanks to them. I would certainly recommend Shanco for any future projects in the MoJ department, or any other site projects.

    Dale Green, Project Manager
    HMP in Northern England
  • Dale Green, Project Manager

    This is my second time working with Shanco. As this is a live prison, it’s taken a momentous effort to organise staff bookings and deliveries, and a good team effort has been achieved due to their positive attitude. Access/clearance has been a challenge, and the coordination of deliveries by Shanco has been fantastic. This has been such a crucial part of the running of the site, it has made my job far easier... We have faced many challenges together as a team, their proactive approach has been of great assistance, and the project is ahead of programme thanks to them. I would certainly recommend Shanco for any future projects in the MoJ department, or any other site projects.

    Dale Green, Project Manager
    HMP in Northern England
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Experts in prison delivery

We’ve solved problems across multiple prison sites and supported Tier 1 contractors to exceed MoJ’s expectations since 2020. See below for some insights into key challenges, and our teams’ approach to dealing with them.

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June 19, 2024

Safe and Secure: Ensuring Security in Groundworks

When working with a groundworks subcontractor on sensitive national security projects, it is essential to ensure that everyone on site has the correct security clearances and adheres to best practices. This article provides examples of what to look for when choosing a groundworks contractor for security-sensitive projects.

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Plan Your Project with Confidence

Speak directly with Leanne to discuss your project requirements. Our experience in secure environments means we understand the unique challenges these projects present. Fill in the form below to arrange your call.

Prison Contact form