Cellular Health Care Centre

The Department's description

Exterior description and setting

The main prison hospital set within its own fenced compound within the administrative area of the prison (zone F). The building is surrounded by tarmac hard-standing and the fences continue on all sides approximately 5-10 meters away from the building. To the north of the building and its compound is the Cellular Administration Block/ECR (HB19/04/030G). To the south is the tall concrete wall and inertia dividing this zone and Phase 3 of the Maze Cellular Prison (Zone J) (HB19/04/030E). To the west is the tall concrete perimeter wall and inertia. To the east of the compound is an internal north south road. Compound is entered via a vehicle air lock to north east from Cellular Administration Block compound. The western area of the compound was further subdivided to provide an exercise yard.

Single storey grey brick and concrete structure with flat roof surmounted by brick enclosed water tank. Aligned north south. Fences comprise galvanised corrugated steel sheeting over welded mesh fence with razor wire rolled top and lamps fitted to posts. Main door is off centre to east elevation with projecting 3 bays to its north and south beyond which are rectangular north and south wings.

External elevations are irregularly fenestrated and windows are fitted internal concrete grilles as with ‘H’ blocks (HB19/04/030A, B, C). Domed skylights to a central internal corridor. External doors fitted with Steel grille security gates. Additional external door in south elevation leading to an exercise yard.

Historical information

For a general historic background to the Prison see HB19/04/030.

The original hospital for the Maze Cellular, built c.1975-7, with little sign of later modification. The Hospital, sometimes referred to as the HCC (Health Care Centre), became less well used toward the end of the Prisons use as the majority of the services were transferred to the ‘H’ Blocks and Short Term Unit (STU). The hospital has historical significance due to its role in the hunger strike protest where numerous prisoners died.

Criteria for listing: architectural interest

D. Plan Form
I. Quality and survival of Interior
J. Setting
K. Group value

Criteria for listing: historic interest

V. Authorship
Y. Social, Cultural or Economic Importance
W. Northern Ireland/International Interest
Z. Rarity

Evaluation

This building is typical of the construction methods and architectural forms associated with the Maze Cellular. Its simple plan form reflects many of the attributes of the H Blocks as evidenced by a ‘Circle’ with wings beyond. The interest of the building is heightened due to its hunger strike associations however it forms an essential element of the prison. Its range of facilities demonstrates the high security nature of the prison and clearly demonstrates the importance of being able to treat cases on site. The presence of the fence with its air lock vehicle entrance demonstrates a higher level of security than other buildings within the Administrative Zone.