Breaking Down Barriers: Changing Perceptions Of La Moye Prison

Synopsis

The Government of Jersey has been enhancing La Moye Prison in phases since 2002. The prison has the task of serving all convicted and remand prisoners on the island, including females, males, young offenders, and people with disabilities. The aim has been to bring the facilities up to modern standards, whilst ensuring the site remains safe and secure.

Phase 4 of the build involved designing a new visitor and staff facility building.

The aim of the Prison was to change the perception of the Prison environment to the public to improve and create new links with the community. This meant the ambitious task of replacing parts of the existing Prison perimeter fencing with a building and new public face that is open and welcoming. The building houses the key functions to which the public experiences the Prison, this includes visiting friends and relatives, as well as professional and legal visits.

Natural light and access to views can have significant benefits on mental health promoting safer and more rehabilitative environments within a custodial environment. The challenge for Arcadis was how to achieve this yet maintain security?

This discussion will demonstrate how large elements of glazing on the main approach elevation and outer prison secure line enabled the Visits Hall to be flooded with large amounts of natural light, as well as providing a pleasant view to the landscape. Detainees feel more connected to the outside world, reducing feelings of isolation and improving overall psychological wellbeing. The first-floor staff training, canteen and rest areas, again with large areas of glazing, allow staff to remain on site during break times and de-stress with views to the sea.

The external works and landscaping create a welcoming environment for visitors and enhancing the public experience of the prison.