CHELMSFORD Prison has been told it must improve following a report from the HM Inspectorate of Prisons.

An inspection carried out at the end of May found a number of concerns at the prison in Springfield Road.

Inspectors said they were concerned to find that since their last inspection in 2011, seven prisoners had committed suicide and there remained high levels of self-harm, first night accommodation was in a poor condition and the range of educational opportunities was slim and not enough activities took place.

Inspectors though were pleased to find the atmosphere was settled and calm and that most prisoners said they felt safe and that initiatives to reduce violence and bullying were effective.

Nick Hardwick, chief inspector of prisons, said that the prison, which holds more than 700 prisoners, was well led, operated on good relationships and was well connected to the community and that it was addressing its issues.

He added: “However, there is much work to do, not least in ensuring an improved regime; but in the better promotion of equality and, significantly, in ensuring improved safety outcomes.”

Chelmsford MP Simon Burns said: “I recognise that the governor and staff do a very good job. This is quite often in very difficult and challenging day-to-day circumstances.”