HMP Moorlands, a Category C prison facility, required essential infrastructure to support a new forensics laboratory. This project focused on constructing a car park and implementing a comprehensive drainage system while ensuring compliance with high-security protocols.

The Project

The project aimed to provide critical infrastructure for the digital forensics facility, improving drainage through the installation of an attenuation tank and Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SuDS) compliant systems. The parking facilities were enhanced using a durable and eco-friendly Grasscrete solution, while utilities were upgraded to accommodate street lighting and EV charging stations. High-security measures, including gates and bollards, were installed to reinforce safety. Given the nature of the facility, meticulous planning and execution were necessary to navigate security challenges effectively.

Methodology

Research and planning began with extensive site investigations and surveys of the existing drainage system. Percolation tests were conducted to finalise the drainage design, ensuring seamless integration with existing infrastructure. A construction strategy was developed to align with prison security regulations, minimising disruption during the execution phase.

Site preparation included clearing overgrown vegetation to facilitate construction. Strict measures were put in place to ensure that ongoing prison operations were not affected during this phase.

Implementation involved the installation of an attenuation tank and detention basin to manage stormwater efficiently. Grasscrete was used to construct 20 new car parking bays, balancing durability with environmental sustainability. Ducting systems were upgraded to support street lighting and EV charging stations. High-security gates and bollards were installed to strengthen facility security.

Quality control and completion were prioritised, with all works meeting SuDS regulations and security standards. Final inspections were conducted, and stakeholder approvals were obtained before the project handover.

Challenges & Solutions

One of the primary challenges was working within a high-security environment, where strict protocols and limited site access posed logistical difficulties. This was overcome through close coordination with prison authorities and meticulous adherence to security regulations.

Integrating the new drainage system with the existing infrastructure was another challenge. To address this, extensive site surveys and percolation tests were carried out to develop a compatible design.

Environmental considerations were taken into account, with Grasscrete selected as a sustainable parking solution. SuDS compliance was also ensured to manage stormwater effectively.

Working within a confined space presented logistical difficulties. The project team employed a phased construction approach to minimise disruption and optimise efficiency.

Upgrading power and utilities without affecting ongoing prison operations required careful planning. This was achieved through gradual implementation and collaboration with other trades, ensuring minimal interference with prison services.

Results & Outcomes

• Enhanced Infrastructure Support The newly constructed car park and drainage system now provide essential support for the digital forensics facility, ensuring smooth operations.
• Improved Drainage Efficiency The installation of an attenuation tank and detention basin has significantly reduced the risk of flooding while ensuring compliance with SuDS regulations.
• Expanded & Eco-Friendly Parking Twenty new car parking bays have been installed using Grasscrete, ensuring long-term durability while promoting environmental sustainability. Additionally, ducting upgrades have increased EV charging capacity.
• Strengthened Security Measures The installation of high-security gates and bollards has reinforced security across the facility. Throughout the project, no security breaches or incidents were recorded.
• On-Time & On-Budget Completion Despite the challenges posed by working in a high-security environment, the project was successfully delivered within the agreed timeframe. The budget was maintained, and all regulatory requirements were met.

“I’m really pleased with how smoothly this project came together, despite the challenges of working in a high-security environment. This was a real team effort, with careful planning and great coordination making all the difference. The new infrastructure now fully supports the forensics lab, improving both functionality and security. A big thank you to everyone involved for their hard work and commitment.”

Paul Deery – Senior Site Supervisor, Shanco