Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

£100 Million Dartmoor Prison Lease Sparks Health Claims

1/7/2026

47 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The UK Ministry of Justice signed a 10-year lease for HMP Dartmoor, projected to cost taxpayers over £100 million.
The Public Accounts Committee called it a "blind panic" lease in 2022, noting radon levels had been known since 2020.
The prison closed in 2024, relocating 682 inmates.
More than 500 former inmates and staff are pursuing claims over health risks.

1 of 1

Story summary

The UK Ministry of Justice signed a 10-year lease for HMP Dartmoor, projected to cost taxpayers over £100 million.
The Public Accounts Committee called it a "blind panic" lease in 2022, noting radon levels had been known since 2020.
The prison closed in 2024, relocating 682 inmates.
More than 500 former inmates and staff are pursuing claims over health risks.