Book a Prison Visit to Chelmsford Prison: Overview

Book a prison visit to Chelmsford Prison, located at 200 Springfield Road, Chelmsford, Essex. Chelmsford Prison is a Category B local prison, primarily housing adult male offenders. Opened in 1830, this historic facility has undergone multiple renovations to meet modern standards. It is designed to accommodate prisoners who pose a significant security risk but are not classified as the highest risk. The prison has a capacity of approximately 750 inmates and focuses on rehabilitation and vocational training.

 

How to Book a Prison Visit to Chelmsford Prison

To book a prison visit to Chelmsford Prison, you can use the following methods:

  1. Online Booking: Visit the GOV.UK booking system and enter the required details, including the prisoner’s name, date of birth, and prisoner number. You can select up to three preferred dates and times.
  2. Telephone Booking: Call the prison’s booking lines at 01245 552 265 or 01245 552 240, available Monday to Friday, 8:15 am to 11:00 am and 12:30 pm to 3:30 pm.
  3. Email Booking: Send an email to the designated address for visit bookings, ensuring you include all necessary identification details.

Visiting Times for Chelmsford Prison

Visits at Chelmsford Prison are available during the following times:

  • Monday to Thursday: 2:15 pm to 4:00 pm (No entry after 3:00 pm)
  • Saturday: 9:30 am to 11:00 am (No entry after 10:00 am) and 2:30 pm to 3:45 pm (No entry after 3:00 pm)
  • Sunday: 2:30 pm to 3:45 pm (No entry after 3:00 pm)

Parking Information and Directions to Chelmsford Prison

By Car:

  • From the M11 Junction 7: Take the A414 towards Chelmsford, follow through Widford roundabout, and continue onto Springfield Road where the prison is located.
  • From the M25-A12 (London): Take the A12 to Chelmsford, follow signs to Army & Navy roundabout, and continue to Springfield Road.
  • From the A12 (Colchester): Take the first Chelmsford exit, follow signs to Springfield Road.

By Train: Chelmsford Railway Station is approximately a 15-minute walk from the prison or a short taxi ride.

By Bus: The prison is served by Eastern National Buses with a stop nearby.

Parking: Free parking is available for visitors at the prison or in nearby public car parks within a five-minute walk.

What to Take with You for a Visit

When you book a prison visit to Chelmsford Prison, ensure you bring:

  • Photo ID: Acceptable forms include a passport, driving licence photo ID card, or a European Community identity card.
  • Alternative ID (if no photo ID): Two of the following – birth or marriage certificate, recent utility bill, recent bank statement, paper driving licence, or a young person’s proof of age card.

Visitors must be on the prisoner’s approved visitor list and book the visit three weeks in advance. During the visit, you can expect to go through security checks, including the storage of personal items like mobile phones and watches in provided lockers. Dress appropriately; avoid revealing clothing and adhere to the prison’s dress code.

FAQs

  1. How do I book a prison visit to Chelmsford Prison? To book a visit, use the online booking system on GOV.UK, or call the prison’s booking line at 01245 552 265.

  2. What are the visiting times for Chelmsford Prison? Visiting times are Monday to Thursday from 2:15 pm to 4:00 pm, Saturday from 9:30 am to 11:00 am and 2:30 pm to 3:45 pm, and Sunday from 2:30 pm to 3:45 pm.

  3. What do I need to bring to visit Chelmsford Prison? You need to bring a valid photo ID such as a passport or driving licence, or two alternative forms of ID like a utility bill and birth certificate.

  4. Is there parking available at Chelmsford Prison? Yes, free parking is available for visitors, and additional public parking is nearby on Victoria Road.

  5. How do I get to Chelmsford Prison by public transport? Chelmsford Railway Station is a 15-minute walk away, and the prison is served by local bus services.

  6. What can I bring to a prison visit? You can bring a small amount of money for refreshments, photo ID, and necessary personal items that comply with prison regulations.

  7. Can children visit Chelmsford Prison? Yes, children can visit, but they count as adults if they are over five years old and must be accompanied by an adult.

  8. How early should I arrive for my visit? Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled visit to complete the security check and registration process.

  9. What is the address of Chelmsford Prison? Chelmsford Prison is located at 200 Springfield Rd, Springfield, Chelmsford, Essex, CM2 6JT.

  10. What kind of security checks are there for visitors? Visitors undergo thorough security checks, including ID verification and the storage of prohibited items in lockers.

Summary and Conclusion

Book a prison visit to Chelmsford Prison by using the online booking system or calling the booking line. Ensure you bring the required identification and arrive early for your visit. Chelmsford Prison, a Category B facility, is committed to the rehabilitation of inmates through various educational and vocational programs. For more information, visit Prison Advice.

You can visit our other prison pages such as Book a prison visit to Channings Wood Prison

Sources Used:

  • GOV.UK
  • Prison Advice
  • Prison Info
  • Doing Time
  • Prison Guide