NORTHALLERTON Prison is to close as part of the Government's modernisation programme.
The jail, on the town's East Road, is one of four earmarked for closure by the Ministry of Justice.
The other three are Blundeston in Suffolk, Dorchester, in West Dorset, and Reading prison.
The MoJ said the four will close as they are either too expensive to run or need substantial capital investment in the next few years.
The announcement was made as the MoJ confirmed plans to build a 2,000-place new prison in Wrexham, North Wales.
The news is a fresh blow for Northallerton, coming just weeks after it was confirmed the Rural Payments Agency is moving 350 jobs out of the town.
The prison dates from 1783 and is the former county gaol for the North Riding.
It has had a number of changes of role over the years, including use as a military prison, a training prison for adults and a remand centre.
In September 2010 the establishment expanded its population base and changed role from a young offenders institution to hold young offenders and adults.
More to follow
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel