Scottish Prison Service takes over private prison HMP Kilmarnock after 25 years

The move comes at a time when the prison estate has been under increased scrutiny in recent months due to worries about its suitability for purpose and congestion. Previously, the institution was managed by private contractor Serco.

Following the expiration of its contract with Kilmarnock jail Services Ltd, the management of the private jail HMP Kilmarnock was handed over to the Scottish Prison Service.

The move comes at a time when the prison estate has been under increased scrutiny in recent months due to worries about its suitability for purpose and congestion. Previously, the institution was managed by private contractor Serco.

This Thursday, Wendy Sinclair-Gieben, Chief Inspector for Prisons for Scotland, declared that HMP Greenock should be “bulldozed” and that HMP Barlinnie in Glasgow was in danger of experiencing a “catastrophic failure.” However, she did commend the staff and relationships at HMP Greenock.