Inmates from HMP Kirklevington Grange, Yarm have helped to create “wildlife corridors” to protect natural habitats and promote biodiversity.
The initiative was backed by a Forestry Commission grant and saw prisoners from the open prison plant ash, oak and other local species on four acres of land.
HMP Kirklevington Grange said that the initiative was part of its commitment to helping resettle its inmates prior to release and had also allowed it to enhance its own green credentials.
“With support, we’ve been able to create something of real value for the future,” said deputy governor Kevin Baker. “That’s something we all need to think more about, no matter which side of the prison wall we’re on.”
The grant was awarded to HMP Kirklevington Grange as part of the English Woodland Grant Scheme, which provides financial aid to initiatives supporting wildlife or creating social benefits for local communities.
