The Ministry of Justice has officially announced the sale of the former Reading Prison site to the Ziran Education Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to educational initiatives.

This sale comes after a meticulous bidding and vetting process aimed at ensuring the best value for taxpayers’ money while recognizing the historic significance of the site. The Ziran Education Foundation will now collaborate with Reading Borough Council to obtain approval for any future development plans.

Initial proposals put forth by the Ziran Education Foundation include the establishment of an educational centre that will provide valuable services to the local community. This centre is expected to house a museum that delves into the history of the prison and an exhibition space accessible to the public.

The proceeds generated from this sale will be reinvested into the broader prison estate, with a focus on reducing reoffending rates and enhancing public safety. Over the past decade, the Ministry of Justice has raised more than £105 million through the sale of former prison sites.

Ziran is a charitable non-profit organization known for its collaborations with colleges to develop primary and secondary school curriculums and educational services.