HMP Norwich is a Category B, C and D prison serving Norfolk and Suffolk, with parts of the historic estate dating back to 1887. Following a review by the Crown Premises Fire Safety Inspectorate, the establishment requires significant improvements to address fire safety compliance issues and enhance the protection of prisoners, staff, visitors and the wider prison estate. The project needs to be delivered within a fully operational custodial environment, where security, continuity of daily prison activities and occupant safety were paramount considerations.
The Fire Safety Improvements programme has been developed to provide a comprehensive upgrade of critical life safety systems across the prison estate. The works are to be focused on improving fire detection, suppression, smoke control and passive fire protection measures while ensuring full compliance with current legislation and Ministry of Justice fire safety standards.
The objectives are to significantly improve fire resilience across the prison estate, providing a safer environment for prisoners, staff and visitors while supporting compliance with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 and Ministry of Justice fire safety objectives. The improvements will contribute to a modernised and more sustainable custodial environment through upgraded life safety systems, energy-efficient lighting and reduced water consumption.
Scope of Works Includes:
- Installation and enhancement of fire alarm systems with in-cell detection.
- New fire suppression systems serving multiple accommodation blocks and specialist units.
- Smoke ventilation systems to improve smoke management and safe evacuation.
- Replacement and upgrade of emergency lighting and control systems.
- Fire misting systems
- Inclusion of water-saving measures to support sustainability objectives.
- HV/LV Site Wide Main Panel Upgrade & Generator
Working in a live Custodial Environment
A significant challenge will be the undertaking of large-scale improvement works within a live prison environment. Detailed phasing and decant strategies are required to maintain operational continuity and security while providing safe access for construction activities. Close collaboration with HMP Norwich management, Ministry of Justice stakeholders and prison operational teams will be required to ensure works are delivered with minimal disruption to day-to-day activities.
Strict security protocols, careful access management, stakeholder engagement and robust health and safety planning is also required to form a critical part of the delivery strategy throughout the programme.
Progress
Works due to commence in August 2026
