Colnbrook Immigration Removal Centre

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Colnbrook Immigration Removal Centre is adjacent to Harmondsworth Immigration Removal Centre and Heathrow Airport in London.

The building was officially opened by Des Browne, who was then Immigration Minister, in September 2004.

The design of the centre is modelled on a high security, Category B criminal prison with wings running into a central area. Each cell is designed to hold two detainees. There is a toilet built into the cell. The capacity is believed to be 326 persons.

The centre is operated by Serco who also operate the Yarls Wood Immigration Removal Centre in Bedfordshire.

Colnbrook detains people who are due for deportation from the UK due to immigration infringements, however this may include foreign-national prisoners who have completed their sentences in UK prisons and who are detained pending removal from the country.

The centre offers detainees a range of activities whilst they are waiting for deportation including a library, multi-faith worship facilities, education provision, gym and sports activities, and a shop.