Northallerton Prison 'may be sold' for town masterplan

The prison, built in 1780, housed about 250 inmates before it closed in 2013.

A defunct prison in North Yorkshire could be bought by a council as part of a market town regeneration.

Hambleton District Council said it was looking to buy Northallerton Prison from the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) as part of a £5m development of the town.

A council spokesperson said its proximity to the High Street meant it could be used for retail and housing.

The MoJ has reportedly agreed to keep the jail off the open market so the council could negotiate a sale.

The empty Rural Payment Agency offices and Crosby Road car park also form part of the masterplan, which includes homes, shops, leisure and education facilities.

Councillor Peter Wilkinson said: "We want to make sure that redevelopment of the entire site takes place in a co-ordinated way and provides the maximum economic and community benefit for the town."

He said if councillors approve the proposals at September's Cabinet meeting, a value for the site could be decided by the end of the year.

The prison was closed in December 2013.

Crosby Road, viewed from The Link with the prison wall on the left.