Construction work is to begin to develop a new cell block at Maghaberry Prison near Lisburn, Northern Ireland.

The new £55 million facility will include 360 cells on three levels and is expected to be completed by 2019.

Justice Minister Claire Sugden visited the site and cut the first sod.

She said: "This occasion marks an important step in the development of the prison estate in Northern Ireland. The new block will deliver modern and fit for purpose accommodation and allow at least three old square house blocks to be closed. Its design and specification will improve efficiency and create a decent and respectful environment for both staff and prisoners.

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"This represents a significant investment in Maghaberry which will eventually see the site developing as three mini prisons."

Director General of the NI Prison Service Sue McAllister said: "Investment in the prison estate in Northern Ireland is fundamental to the ongoing modernisation of the prison service. The creation of an additional 360 cell accommodation block at Maghaberry is a one key element of NIPS strategy to deliver a fit for purpose estate. Modern and well-designed accommodation encourages positive engagement between staff and prisoners and facilitates the delivery of better tailored regimes to assist prisoners in addressing their offending behaviour."

(CD)