BURY South MP Ivan Lewis is to meet the Home Secretary to discuss the proposed prison at Agecroft.

The meeting with Home Secretary, Jack Straw will take place at the Home Office next week with prison minister Joyce Quinn and Salford MPs, Ian Stewart, Hazel Blears and Terry Lewis.

Ivan Lewis said: "I will be seeking assurances from Mr Straw regarding the safety of the local community and the safeguarding of the environment.

"I am particularly concerned that the contract for the management of the prison is awarded to a reputable company with a proven track record which must remain accountable to the public through the Home Office.

"I remain totally opposed to the location of this prison on the Agecroft site. However, if it is built I want a commitment from the Government that local people will benefit from the significant employment opportunities which will be created."

The 800-place category B prison was granted outline planning permission by the Deputy Prime Minister, John Prescott, who oversees the Department of the Environment, following a public inquiry called after Salford Council rejected the proposals for the site formerly occupied by the Agecroft Power Station.

A bitter campaign against the prison has been waged by local residents.

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