WINCHESTER civic chiefs have highlighted the importance of the city's prison to the local economy.

The city council has responded to a Government review of the jails in the UK.

As one of the oldest, dating back to Victorian times, the prison at Winchester may be considered surplus to requirements.

Its location in Winchester would be worth a multi-million pound sum if released for housing development.

The council has highlighted the importance of the wealth of legal firms and judiciary that contribute to Winchester’s economy in response to the Government’s plans for prisons.

Justice Secretary Elizabeth Truss proposes 5,000 modern prison places, replacing old and overcrowded establishments with new, fit-for-purpose buildings.

The programme includes a review of older buildings including HMP Winchester in Romsey Road, parts of which date from Victorian times.

The prison directly employs more than 100 staff but also reflects the city's importance as a legal centre close to the Law Courts and many firms of lawyers.

Caroline Horrill, Leader of Winchester City Council, said: “We understand and support the need to modernise prisons and it is right that facilities at HMP Winchester are reviewed.

“However, we will be stressing to Government the importance of Winchester within the British judiciary. Significant trials have been held in Winchester through history and those in the dock have often been held on remand at HMP Winchester.

"Our city is blessed with many fine legal practices and we will be raising the importance of the local judiciary with Government as part of their considerations. This includes Winchester Crown Court, often considered second in importance only to the Old Bailey in London, as well as HMP Winchester which support jobs and services."

Cllr Horrill added: “We will be urging Ministers to continue to invest in Winchester.”