Construction has begun on a new £998.4 million prison in Glasgow, set to replace the 143-year-old HMP Barlinnie. 

The project, which will deliver a capacity of 1,344 places, is expected to generate over £450 million in economic benefits, including significant job creation and support for local businesses. 

"HMP Glasgow is a bold vision for the future of Scottish prisons that will help reduce reoffending, contribute to less crime, while delivering a considerable economic boost for the city and beyond," said Justice Secretary Angela Constance.

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"Delivering the best value has been a key consideration of this project, with independent benchmarking analysis finding the costs are comparable with similar prison projects elsewhere in the UK."

The new prison will be designed to improve rehabilitation opportunities for prisoners and provide a safer working environment for staff.

"HMP Glasgow will have a transformative impact in how we support and rehabilitate people," said Teresa Medhurst, Chief Executive of the Scottish Prison Service.

Kier Construction has been awarded the contract to deliver the project. "We will build a sustainable, state-of-the-art facility while ensuring that local communities, schools and charities directly benefit both now and in the future," said Rebecca Boundy, Public Sector Director at Kier Construction. 

The project is expected to create over 1,000 jobs during peak construction activity, with at least 50 new apprenticeships and a commitment to support local businesses through the supply chain. 

The new prison is expected to be completed in 2028.