HMP Altcourse: Introduction
HMP Altcourse, a prominent Category B men’s prison, is located in Fazakerley, Liverpool. This institution has a significant place in the history of the UK’s prison system as it was the first to be fully designed, constructed, and managed by a private company. Opened in December 1997, it has continued to evolve, both in its infrastructure and its approach to incarceration.
History of HMP Altcourse
HMP Altcourse was established under a Private Finance Initiative (PFI) contract, making it the first UK prison built and operated by a private company, G4S. The prison officially began operations on 1st December 1997. It was constructed on a former Ministry of Defence supply depot, marking a new era in the privatisation of the UK’s correctional facilities.
Facilities at HMP Altcourse
The prison features seven main wings, each named after fences of the Grand National steeplechase course. These include Bechers, Furlong, Melling, Canal, Valentines, Reynoldstown, and Foinavon. The facility is well-equipped with modern amenities, including a gymnasium, library, education centre, and a first night centre for new inmates. The prison also offers extensive rehabilitation and educational programs to support inmate reintegration.
Capacity and Inmate Demographics
HMP Altcourse has the capacity to house 1,324 inmates. The prison accommodates adult male prisoners serving sentences for a wide range of offenses, including burglary, drug-related crimes, robbery, and violent crimes. It also holds remand prisoners awaiting trial. The inmate population reflects diverse backgrounds and a variety of criminal histories.
Category and Management
As a Category B prison, HMP Altcourse houses inmates who do not require maximum security but pose a significant risk to the public. Managed by G4S, now known as The GEO Group, the prison continues to function under a contract with the Ministry of Justice. The relationship between private management and public oversight remains a topic of ongoing debate.
Recent News and Developments
HMP Altcourse has frequently been in the news, often due to issues such as overcrowding, drug smuggling, and violence. In 2005, it was reported as the most overcrowded prison in England. The prison has faced criticism for the amount of illegal drugs being smuggled in and the high levels of violence among inmates. Despite these challenges, it has also been praised for its provision of meaningful activities aimed at rehabilitation.
Visiting HMP Altcourse
Visiting times at HMP Altcourse are structured to allow for family and friends to maintain contact with inmates. Visits must be booked at least 24 hours in advance and can only be scheduled up to seven days ahead. Visitors can reach the prison via public transport, with the nearest train station being Fazakerley Station. Bus services from Liverpool city centre also provide access to the prison.
Location and Contact Information
HMP Altcourse is located at Brookfield Drive, Fazakerley, Liverpool, L9 7LH. For more information or to book a visit, you can contact the prison at 0151 522 2000 or visit their official website.
FAQs
1. What is the capacity of HMP Altcourse? HMP Altcourse can house up to 1,324 inmates.
2. Who manages HMP Altcourse? The prison is managed by G4S, now known as The GEO Group, under a contract with the Ministry of Justice.
3. What security category is HMP Altcourse? HMP Altcourse is a Category B prison, meaning it houses inmates who do not require maximum security.
4. How can I book a visit to HMP Altcourse? Visits can be booked by calling 0151 522 2196 or 0151 522 2042 between 08:30 and 18:00 during weekdays.
5. What are the main facilities available at HMP Altcourse? Facilities include a gymnasium, library, education centre, and a first night centre.
6. What types of inmates are housed at HMP Altcourse? The prison accommodates adult male prisoners convicted of various crimes, including burglary, drug offenses, and violent crimes, as well as remand prisoners.
7. Where is HMP Altcourse located? The prison is located in Fazakerley, Liverpool, at Brookfield Drive, L9 7LH.
8. What are the main issues facing HMP Altcourse? Key issues include overcrowding, drug smuggling, and violence among inmates.
9. When was HMP Altcourse established? HMP Altcourse opened on 1st December 1997.
10. What rehabilitation programs are available at HMP Altcourse? The prison offers various educational and rehabilitation programs aimed at supporting inmate reintegration into society.
Summary and Conclusion
HMP Altcourse stands as a significant institution in the UK’s prison system, marking the shift towards private management of correctional facilities. Despite facing challenges such as overcrowding and drug smuggling, it continues to provide essential rehabilitation services to its inmates. The future of HMP Altcourse will likely continue to shape the discourse on the effectiveness and ethics of private prisons in the UK.
For more detailed information about HMP Altcourse, visit our other prison pages such as HMP Addiewell
-
-
Sale!Prison Products
Prison Survival Guide
Original price was: £2.99.£1.99Current price is: £1.99. Add to basket -
Sale!Prison Products
Cat D Prison Tool Kit
Original price was: £2.99.£1.99Current price is: £1.99. Add to basket -
Sale!Prison Products
Secret Prisoner Book
Original price was: £2.99.£1.99Current price is: £1.99. Add to basket
