Dendermonde Prison
The background
In recent years, prisons in Belgium have faced increasing overcrowding due to rising incarceration rates, highlighting the urgent need for additional capacity. To address this, the Belgium Buildings Agency (Regie der Gebouwen / Régie des Bâtiments) delivered a new prison in Dendermonde, near Antwerp, designed to accommodate 444 inmates.
Timely delivery of the asset was essential. The new facility was urgently required to improve the quality of prison infrastructure and relieve pressure on the existing system. The Belgium Buildings Agency therefore sought a trusted partner with the expertise to deliver the project efficiently and without significant delays
In 2020, Invesis was awarded the public-private partnership (PPP) contract to design, build, finance and maintain (DBFM) the prison. Despite the challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic, Dendermonde Prison was successfully delivered on schedule.
The prison’s design is underpinned by a humane approach to detention, with a strong focus on supporting rehabilitation and reintegration into society. It aligns with the Belgian Government’s 2008 Masterplan for Detention and Internment in Humane Conditions, which promotes the development of new facilities and the modernisation of existing ones.
Client
Regie der Gebouwen
Capital Value
€117m
Sponsor/Investor
Invesis
Consortium
Poort van Dendermonde
Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC)
BAM Interbuild BV
Operations and Maintenance (O&M)
BAM Facility Management BV
Business value
Construction of Dendermonde Prison commenced during the height of the coronavirus pandemic, which inevitably lead to minor supply chain delays. Through close collaboration with the client and development partners, Invesis worked proactively to identify solutions, ensuring progress was maintained, and all stakeholder requirements were met.
Due to the lifecycle approach of the PPP model, Dendermonde prison was delivered on time with no major delays.The facility will also be maintained to a high standard over a 25-year period, ensuring long-term performance and value.
Designed with a strong emphasis on liveability and sustainability, Dendermonde Prison is now a high-quality, fully operational asset. Its innovative layout, modern facilities and spacious environment contribute to a more effective detention experience, supporting the rehabilitation and reintegration of inmates.
Key features
By using the PPP contract approach and partnering with Invesis, the project;
