The Scottish Prison Service today announce the signing of the Stage Two construction contract with Balfour Beatty to deliver HMP Highland, which will replace HMP Inverness, and deliver a wide range of benefits to those in our care, our staff, our partners, and our communities in the north of Scotland.
The Scottish Prison Service and the Scottish Government are committed to investing in our estate, to create better environments for people to live and work, to aid rehabilitation, reduce the risk of reoffending, and support safer communities.
HMP Highland will not only have capacity for 200 people – more than double the 97, which HMP Inverness was designed for – but also more space for activities and programmes.
The project has already created a lasting legacy, through additional jobs, training, apprenticeships, mentoring, and paid work placements for local residents including former offenders.
Additionally, it has provided a meaningful benefit to local suppliers, and contributions to community projects – which will continue throughout Stage Two and once the prison becomes fully operational.
Linda Pollock, Deputy Chief Executive of the Scottish Prison Service, said: “With the support of the Scottish Government, we are committed to investing in our estate to create better environments for people to live and work.
“HMP Highland will not only increase the capacity previously available at HMP Inverness, but also provide space for quality rehabilitative work which we know gives people the greatest possible chance of a successful return to their communities on liberation.
“This project has so far seen the creation of new jobs and apprenticeships for the local area, with more to come in future.”
