Oscar Wilde’s former prison in the UK to be transformed into a cultural center
A cultural space and boutique hotel are planned for the site of an old prison in Reading, UK. Oscar Wilde is known to have served his sentence there.
In 2021, the famous English street artist Banksy expressed the idea of opening an art center on the site of the prison, emphasizing its support through the local council. To implement this project, he planned to raise 10 million pounds sterling by selling a stencil for his graffiti, made in March 2021.
The prison, built in the 19th century, was closed in 2014, and in 2024, it was purchased by the Ziran Educational Foundation. The foundation’s founder, Channing Bee, noted that the purchase was made for the benefit of history and culture.
The new owner intends to equip the premises for artistic events and create a residence for artists experiencing persecution. In the summer of 2026, it is planned to hold open cultural events and present a detailed reconstruction plan.
The first concept for the reconstruction, developed by an Italian architectural office, was rejected. The local authorities and Historic England believe it did not reflect the building’s historical value, which includes part designated as an architectural monument.
The foundation has already selected a new architect from the United Kingdom, who has prepared a new master plan. Channing Bee emphasized that if the new project is well received by the community, the reconstruction can proceed.
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