Andorra Buys Land for New Prison Mental Health Facilities

The Andorran government has opted to purchase a 1,600-square-metre plot of undeveloped land directly adjacent to the current penitentiary centre, rather than renting the outdated building formerly occupied by Arch Led. The Minister of Justice and Interior, Ester Molné, outlined the decision in an interview with *Altaveu*, confirming that the final purchase deed is expected to be signed by the end of summer for around €260,000.

Initial plans considered leasing the Arch Led facility, which sits on a larger L-shaped plot once owned by BPA and auctioned off following the bank's collapse. However, technical assessments revealed the building was too old and excessively large, requiring costly reforms to meet penitentiary needs. Officials determined that buying just the adjoining unbuilt section—abutting the prison's perimeter wall—would allow construction of purpose-built facilities from scratch.

The new structures will include a dedicated module for inmates with mental health issues, currently housed in part of the minors' unit, as well as spaces focused on rehabilitation. Molné highlighted the growing demand for psychiatric support amid rising mental health challenges in society. French penitentiary experts, consulted for advice, have already provided input on requirements.

Construction is likely to begin in the next legislative term, though project planning could advance before then. Current efforts include subdividing the land, owned by the same investor who acquired the Arch Led building at auction. Molné noted potential benefits like added parking and an elevator linking levels, pending detailed designs.

A budget line for 2026 had provisionally included rental costs as a precaution during analysis, but this proved unnecessary once the land purchase emerged as the more strategic option. A promise of sale has already been signed, securing the site's future expansion.