National brickwork, scaffolding and drywall specialist Phoenix Brickwork, based in Pinxton, Derbyshire, is delivering specialist brickwork and scaffolding services as part of an expansion of HMP Bullingdon in Oxfordshire.
Construction is already underway on a new, fully electric, four-storey T60 houseblock – which is a standardised prison building design used in the UK.
This project will increase the Category B men’s prison’s capacity by 247 places and will contribute to the Accelerated Houseblocks Development Programme (AHDP).
The AHDP aims to expand the UK’s prison estate by 20,000 places and includes construction at six prisons in Channings Wood, Elmley, Highpoint, Hindley, Wayland and Bullingdon.
It is estimated that over 2,000 new jobs will be generated during this prison expansion programme and 750 more jobs within the newly established prison facilities.
Jamie Duerden, Brickwork Managing Director at Phoenix, said: “This project represents a significant investment in the UK’s prison infrastructure, and Phoenix Brickwork is proud to be contributing its expertise.
“The use of modern construction techniques, the focus on sustainability, and the commitment to a more secure United Kingdom makes this an important step forward for us in this sector.”
At HMP Bullingdon, the energy efficient houseblock is being constructed using Modern Methods of Construction (MMC), with components being manufactured off-site to reduce carbon emissions.
Designed as x-shaped buildings, the T60 houseblocks are built with wider landings to increase visibility of multiple wings, assisting the officers responsible with maintaining order without compromising on access to adjacent facilities such as healthcare and kitchens to promote rehabilitation and safety.
This design aligns with the Ministry of Justice’s commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency, ensuring a low-carbon, modern facility that meets the latest industry standards.
Phoenix Brickwork, which also has offices in Northampton, is delivering high-quality brickwork and scaffold to support the build, ensuring durability and precision in line with the project’s stringent requirements. In addition, BMH Scaffolding, part of the Phoenix Brickwork group of companies, will provide the scaffolding for this specialist project.
The expansion includes a workshop, a programme building, a two-storey admin facility and an extension to the recreation area, further supporting rehabilitation initiatives within the prison.
The expansion of HMP Bullingdon is part of a wider programme to modernise and increase capacity across the UK’s prison system.
Jamie said: “This project at HMP Bullingdon shows how we can focus on modern construction techniques and sustainability during this expansion programme. We are extremely happy to be involved in this project and will, as always, be delivering on time. It wasn’t that long ago that we also delivered at HMP Glen Parva, which is an adult male prison and young offenders institute in Leicestershire.”
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About Phoenix Brickwork
Established in 2010, Phoenix Brickwork, which has offices in Derbyshire and Northampton, has grown constantly, both organically and by acquisition, securing its first £1 million contract in 2015, and expanding its range of services to include brickwork, scaffolding, (SFS) design and install, and drywalling services.
Experts in masonry, drywall and scaffolding, Phoenix Brickwork provides seamless, integrated and reliable construction solutions for its growing portfolio of projects.
Offering multi-trade support and streamline project delivery from start to finish, the company has seen turnover exceed £30 million and continues to develop its relationships with major contractors across the country.
With the health, safety and welfare of staff, high quality of workmanship and solid client relationships remaining as core values for the business, Phoenix has secured accreditation from a wide range of organisations, including Priority Constructionline Gold, FIRAS, CHAS, Achilles, and Investors in People.
Further acquisitions and growth are planned, now Phoenix has been recognised nationally as a key subcontractor to the largest main contractors in the UK.
