'Heart-wrenching decision' to close Shepton Mallet prison
The operator says it has invested in the site, but the owner says it has concerns
Last updated 29th Nov 2023
'Heart-breaking and 'heart-wrenching' - the words in an emotional post from the team that run Shepton Mallet prison after confirming it will close in the New Year.
The 400-year old listed building has been a popular visitor attraction since 2017 and even runs ghost tours on site.
There has been a row between the owner and the operator with one side saying they've invested more than £1-million into it, the other worried the building could be at risk.
The site employs 18 people.
The post online says: "We are deeply saddened to share that Shepton Mallet Prison is scheduled to close on 2nd January 2024. This heart-breaking decision comes after years of dedication to preserving this historic site. The closure will impact our dedicated team and the entire community who have embraced us."
CEO of Cove Group, which has managed the prison since 2017, Joel Campbell explained that their 'efforts to secure the prison's future were met with obstacles and a lack of support from the prison’s owners City & Country, leading to this heart-wrenching decision'.
He added: "This is an incredibly sad time for myself and our amazing team at Shepton Mallet Prison This now marks the end of our chapter in the prison's long story. We hope those that have not been yet will visit us in these remaining weeks, to walk the corridors one last time, and to remember the importance of preserving our past for the sake of our future."
A statement from the owners of the prison, City & Country say their agreement with Cove Group meant no rent was owed, in exchange for insurance costs being covered, and the guarantee that the buildings didn't deteriorate.
City & Country also say that some electrical testing, which was required to take place earlier this year wasn't complete and they argue that it not only "puts the buildings and users at risk" but also risks "insurers would not pay out in the event of a claim".
"Being custodians of such important and historic buildings comes with a vast responsibility as well as with considerable costs. We need to make sure that we take our responsibility seriously to ensure the future of this building remains a priority and as such, we will now be considering options for its continued use."
For more about the site and to book a tour click here