Pentonville

Pentonville prison was the prototype for a radical design by Major Jebb - after whom the avenue on which Brixton prison stands was named. Pentonville was completed over 150 years ago and has remained in use ever since as a local prison. Although much refurbishment has taken place the original four cellblocks are as they were when the prison opened in 1842.

Address:

HMP Pentonville

Caledonian Road

London

N7 8TT

Tel: 020 7023 7000

Fax: 020 7023 7001

Governor: Nick Leader

Accommodation: Cells

Operational capacity: 1152 as of 28th September 2008

Reception criteria: Normal reception arrangements: Pentonville is a local prison, it accepts all suitable male prisoners over the age of 21 from courts in its catchment area.

Governor's comment (Nick Leader – October 2008)

We are building on performance improvements initiated from the Performance Improvement Plan of 2007/08. The change process we are following continues to encourage ideas from prisoners, staff, managers, union representatives and external stakeholders.

Work being taken forward this year includes:

• starting work to improve links with local boroughs and the third sector
• taking forward exciting developments to improve first night centre arrangements
• implementing improved staff profile arrangements that better meet the work we are required to deliver
• reviewing and improving incentive scheme, violence reduction, safer custody and prisoner care arrangements
• building on progress that impact on the quality of life for staff and prisoners (including race equality issues)