A purpose built prison, Holme House opened in May 1992,[1] and was expanded to include further houseblocks and workshops in the late 1990s.

The prisoners turned violent after being locked up for longer periods due to staff shortages.

Mike Quinn, vice-chairman of the National Association of Probation Officers Northumbria branch, said that the event was a consequence of staff cuts in the prison service.

Work/training areas include laundry, woodwork, furniture assembly, textiles, Print Workshop production, industrial cleaning, Painting and Decorating, electrical testing and picture framing.

There is a Visitors Centre[6] located outside of Holme House Prison, which has a children's play area, disabled access toilets, a refreshment bar and a baby changing facility.