Specialist Groundworks for Prisons and the MoJ

High-security construction projects demand absolute compliance, precision planning, and the ability to work seamlessly in live, controlled environments. With a majoritively security-cleared workforce and proven experience across the HMPPS estate, Shanco delivers groundworks packages that others avoid - on time, defect-free, and without disruption.

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Groundworks that enable secure construction

From prison expansions to fire safety improvements and complex infrastructure packages, our in-house engineering and technical teams deliver fully sequenced, compliant groundworks. Every foundation, trench, and connection is executed right first time - protecting programmes, maintaining security, and ensuring safe delivery in the most demanding environments.

Trusted performance in the justice sector

8

Major Prison Projects Completed

Safely delivered across the UK.
33

EL1-Cleared
Operatives

Security clearances in place, ready to mobilise without delay.
23

CTC
Cleared Staff

Experienced in working within strict MoJ protocols and SAL restrictions.
3

Strategic Alliance Partnerships

Long-term relationships built on trust and repeat delivery.
5+

Years of live-establishment experience

Proven track record across the HMPPS estate.
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Adapted for MOJ requirements

Explore Shanco’s tailored groundworks solutions that ensure security, efficiency, and precision in prison and national security environments.

Fast-track delivery

Saving you time and mitigating risks in mobilisation, our team has EL1, CTC, and BPSS clearances in hand. We understand SALs and 4.20 restrictions and will tailor our proposal to suit the restrictions of the Establishment.

Fire Safety Improvements

We have delivered cross site groundworks packages for FSI projects across the UK. We understand that cross-site services are often complex in prisons, and will work collaboratively with you and the design team to support on-time, compliant delivery.

Expert Resource & Programme
Coordination

Our Planners know what it takes to win MoJ tenders. We support programme, methodology, and logistics at all stages, excelling in complex solutions and advising your teams on options.

Pre-construction involvement

We engage early to de-risk complex projects, helping bid teams and site teams alike with technical input, tailored content, and value engineering.

Excellent Nationwide

Our operations span the UK, delivering consistent, high-quality outcomes in national security projects, no matter the location.

Commitment to social value

We embed sustainability and social value in every project, supporting ROTL, prison leaver employment, and wider community outcomes.
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Proven delivery, every time

Our case studies demonstrate how Shanco delivers safely and efficiently in the most complex justice environments. From fire safety upgrades to major prison expansions, our track record proves: zero disruption, zero defects, and on-time delivery - even in the most controlled and high-security sites.
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Case Studies

47

February 20, 2024

Shanco Helps Deliver Modular Building for HMP Wymott

Shanco has completed the groundworks for a new modular building at a HM Prison in Preston, which will create additional space for staff and offices. The project was completed on behalf of PMA (Services) Ltd., which specialises in refurbishments for the Ministry of Justice.

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79

April 22, 2024

Complex HMP Hatfield Category D Facility Expansion Complete with No Disruptions

Discover Shanco's achievements in expanding the HMP Category D facility, overcoming complex engineering challenges to deliver high-quality work while prioritizing safety and efficiency.

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39

April 30, 2024

EV-ready Car Park & Efficient Street Lights for HMP Hatfield

As part of its commitment to sustainability, the MOJ built a new 30-space car park with integrated street lighting and EV charging points alongside Shanco’s simultaneous works within the facility. This case study outlines the planning, design and implementation of the project, highlighting the benefits and challenges faced during its execution.

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46

May 7, 2024

Installation of New Site-wide Services to HMP Sudbury Coinciding with Shanco Works for Expansion

This case study will highlight the successful completion of the site-wide service trench within the programme, resulting in positive feedback from the site manager.

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92

June 17, 2024

Navigating Logistics and Strict Restrictions: HMP Moorlands Modular Laundry Foundations

Shanco, renowned for its expertise in groundworks and large number of operatives with Security Clearance, was contracted to provide essential groundwork services and new service trenching for a CAT C Prison facility. 

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92

March 26, 2025

Infrastructure Development at HMP Moorlands

Discover how HMP Moorlands successfully implemented critical infrastructure to support a new forensics laboratory. This case study explores the construction of a high-security car park and drainage system, including an attenuation tank, SuDS-compliant solutions, and eco-friendly grasscrete parking. Learn how meticulous planning, security compliance, and phased execution ensured the project was completed on time and within budget, enhancing both functionality and security. Read more about the challenges, solutions, and outcomes of this complex infrastructure development project.

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Customer Testimonials

  • Dale Green, Project Manager

    This is my second time working with Shanco. As this is a live prison, it’s taken a momentous effort to organise staff bookings and deliveries, and a good team effort has been achieved due to their positive attitude. Access/clearance has been a challenge, and the coordination of deliveries by Shanco has been fantastic. This has been such a crucial part of the running of the site, it has made my job far easier... We have faced many challenges together as a team, their proactive approach has been of great assistance, and the project is ahead of programme thanks to them. I would certainly recommend Shanco for any future projects in the MoJ department, or any other site projects.

    Dale Green, Project Manager
    HMP in Northern England
  • Dale Green, Project Manager

    This is my second time working with Shanco. As this is a live prison, it’s taken a momentous effort to organise staff bookings and deliveries, and a good team effort has been achieved due to their positive attitude. Access/clearance has been a challenge, and the coordination of deliveries by Shanco has been fantastic. This has been such a crucial part of the running of the site, it has made my job far easier... We have faced many challenges together as a team, their proactive approach has been of great assistance, and the project is ahead of programme thanks to them. I would certainly recommend Shanco for any future projects in the MoJ department, or any other site projects.

    Dale Green, Project Manager
    HMP in Northern England
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Experts in prison delivery

We’ve solved problems across multiple prison sites and supported Tier 1 contractors to exceed MoJ’s expectations since 2020. See below for some insights into key challenges, and our teams’ approach to dealing with them.

37

June 19, 2024

Safe and Secure: Ensuring Security in Groundworks

When working with a groundworks subcontractor on sensitive national security projects, it is essential to ensure that everyone on site has the correct security clearances and adheres to best practices. This article provides examples of what to look for when choosing a groundworks contractor for security-sensitive projects.

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Plan Your Project with Confidence

Speak directly with Leanne to discuss your project requirements. Our experience in secure environments means we understand the unique challenges these projects present. Fill in the form below to arrange your call.

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