HM Prison Gibraltar
Project name:
The Brief
HM Prison Gibraltar
Location:
Gibraltar
Value:
£5m new build project
Services:
Architecture
When the Government of Gibraltar made the decision to bid for UNESCO World
Heritage Status for the ‘Fortress of Gibraltar’, this presented a challenge for the
existing prison, which was located within the historic Moorish Castle. One Creative
Environments Ltd (One) was appointed to design a new facility which would meet
modern demands and allow the castle to be restored and preserved.
Project Overview
Following initial feasibility studies, One was appointed to design a new prison
facility for the Government of Gibraltar. Located on the Upper Rock area, the
new three-storey prison accommodates approximately 50 cells with two bunks
and provides recreational and educational facilities, an administration block with
associated command suite and additional storage facilities. The design also
incorporates secure anti-ligature fixtures and fittings throughout for inmate safety.
The new building’s prominent position is in an area of historic interest and its
construction used local building techniques. The choice of heavy masonry not only
complements the surroundings but was chosen for its heavy thermal properties.
The thermal mass absorbs heat during the day, helping to cool the interior, while
heat is purged at night through a series of secure open vents.
The site of the new prison also posed a significant ecological challenge. Home
to the native Barbary Partridge (a protected species in Gibraltar), One’s design
incorporates a series of secondary perimeter fences to provide a safe zone for
the protected bird. This also creates a secure buffer between the prison and the
surrounding area, while protecting this important natural habitat.
The Benefits
•Operationally-led design and flexible layout to accommodate varying
inmate types and numbers – Each floor is designed with a series of secure
partitions. Due to the diversity of the prison population - from women and young
offenders, to those serving life terms - this allows the expansion or contraction
of each wing according to inmate numbers and their demographic, with secure
separation between groups.
•A natural ventilation strategy to optimise comfort levels in this extreme
climate – Due to its exposed location on the Rock of Gibraltar, heating and
cooling of the facility is a key consideration. A natural ventilation strategy has
been employed, offering a more energy efficient and cost effective design
solution. Service ducts double-up as smoke extraction and natural ventilation
risers, allowing warm air to escape up through the roof, while cooler air is drawn
in through secure open vents at night.
Photos © DM Parody (www.dotcom.gi/photos)
For further information
please contact:
One Creative Environments Ltd
T: 01905 362300 www.oneltd.com