GLASGOW'S Barlinnie is set to be replaced by a new jail.

HMP Glasgow will be a modern facility built on a 54-acre site in Provanmill, in the East End of the city.

The Scottish Prison Service (SPS) has awarded Kier the preconstruction services contract to deliver the new prison, which is set to replace Victorian-era HMP Barlinnie, in 2026.

SPS intends that it will be designed to deliver safety and security through the use of technology in a way which supports positive outcomes for prisoners.

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Kier and its supply chain will begin work on the pre-construction phase, closely collaborating with SPS, to deliver the best possible design for the state-of-the-art new building.

The company will explore options for delivering a net zero carbon facility which also operates as a "smart building", using automated processes and technology to support the operation of the new prison, for example through automated prisoner movement.

Teresa Medhurst, SPS chief executive said: “We are delighted to award the contract for preconstruction services to Kier Construction which represents a significant step forward in delivering the new HMP Glasgow. 

"The investment that we have received from the Scottish Government means that we can continue to develop a prison estate, which is fit for the 21st century.

“This significant capital project offers SPS the opportunity to work with Kier Construction, utilising a strategic alliance approach to create a single team ethic to ensure that operational, architectural and construction expertise is blended to create a facility that is innovative and sustainable whilst promoting the strategic intent of the prison to deliver in all areas of the Scottish Government’s national outcomes.”

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Liam Cummins, group managing director of Kier Construction, added: “We are delighted to have been selected to deliver HMP Glasgow, further strengthening our relationship with the Scottish Prison Service. 

“This important project is an opportunity to deploy our extensive custodial experience combining engineering excellence, modern methods of delivery and our strong operational capability in Scotland developed over more than 30 years.

“We look forward to getting started on this first phase of work with the SPS and bringing their vision to life.”