Reading Prison (a Grade II listed building) is located in the heart of Reading city, within walking distance to the main rail station and CBD. Most contextually important is the site’s situation in relation to the old Reading Abbey ruins and its own storied heritage as place of detention. The primary objective of the proposed scheme is to preserve and ultimately exhibit the site’s archaeological, cultural and heritage assets. Through this the aim is to create a new quarter of Central Reading, one that draws in visitors by delivering a plethora of exhibits and activities focused on the site’s history and cultural heritage.

The site’s proposed functionality is twofold, to revitalise the old goal in a means conducive to its historic value and to create supporting uses along the site’s perimeter.

The Prison’s primary function will be the hosting of exhibitions and cultural activities given its heritage value. The residual space within the Prison has been devoted to generating the sustainable income needed to offset surplus running costs. This space is significant enough to accommodate a 100 key hotel or student accommodation of approximately 130 rooms.