Bogambara Prison opens doors to investors

Sri Lanka is preparing to invite investment proposals to redevelop the historic Bogambara Prison, with plans to convert the former jail into a commercially viable project while preserving its architectural and historical legacy, officials said.

Authorities said investment opportunities will soon be announced to redevelop the 135-year-old complex, potentially as a hotel or a mixed-use development. The plan will ensure the preservation of the prison’s original structure and distinctive architectural features. The facility consists of three floors, each containing 108 cells.

Bogambara Prison, built on land reclaimed from the Bogambara Lake, was officially closed on January 1, 2014. Historical records note that the prison’s design was attributed to architect F. Vine.

The prison occupies an important place in Sri Lanka’s penal and political history. It is recorded as the country’s only prison with a gallows capable of carrying out two executions simultaneously. Among those executed there were W.A. Siripala, famously known as “Maru Sira,” and the notorious outlaw Utuwankande Sura Saradiyel.

Historical accounts also state that during executions, all prison gates were kept open to allow any last-minute reprieve orders to be delivered without delay, even at the final moment.

Several prominent political figures were also imprisoned at Bogambara, including Colvin R. de Silva, Philip Gunawardena, and William de Silva.

Officials said the proposed redevelopment aims to reimagine the historic site for modern use while ensuring its past is carefully preserved and interpreted for future generations.