What's Happening?
The Ministry of Justice has awarded Bovis Construction a £237.5 million contract to deliver critical prison and court infrastructure under its Contingency Response Programme. The contract, part of the MoJ's initiative to create 20,000 additional prison places, involves time-sensitive construction across England and Wales. Bovis will manage risk, procurement strategy, and site-specific designs, with work priced on an open-book basis. The program aims to improve safety, sustainability, and access to services in the justice system, with key performance indicators including timely operation readiness and value for money.
Why It's Important?
This contract is crucial for addressing the UK's growing need for prison capacity and modernizing justice infrastructure. By expanding prison places, the MoJ aims to alleviate overcrowding and improve conditions within the justice system. The focus on sustainability and safety reflects broader governmental priorities for responsible construction practices. Bovis's involvement signifies a shift in the management of these projects following the collapse of previous contractor ISG, ensuring continuity and progress in critical infrastructure development.