Officers warn Scotland’s new prison risks uncontrolled inmate movement
Scotland’s prison officers have raised safety concerns over plans to open HMP Glasgow without traditional barred security gates in its residential areas. The new high-security jail is intended to replace Barlinnie, and officials say its smaller, self-contained units will reduce the need for gates.
The Scottish Prison Officers Association plans to raise its concerns with the Scottish Prison Service, citing the risk of uncontrolled movement; there were 342 inmate attacks on prison staff last year. The prison is expected to cost £998 million, open three years late in 2028 and hold 1,344 people. Separately, maintaining a site earmarked for a new Greenock prison has cost taxpayers £450,000 since it was bought in 2011.
In short
- Officers warn that HMP Glasgow’s design could put staff safety at risk.
- The prison is due to open in 2028, three years late.
- Its planned capacity is 1,344 people, and its cost is £998 million.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Removing traditional barred gates could make residential areas feel less restrictive and support safer, more constructive daily life. Officials argue that smaller, self-contained units can control movement through their design, while allowing staff to supervise and manage residents without relying on gates.
The case against
Barred gates provide a clear physical way to restrict movement, and officers have reason to question whether the proposed layout can offer equivalent protection. With hundreds of attacks on staff reported last year, uncontrolled movement could expose staff and prisoners to avoidable risks; the design should address those concerns before the prison opens.
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Originally published by Daily Mail as “Jailhouse shock! Barred doors are barred at Scotland’s ‘new Bar-L’ prison”.