Plans to build Inverness prison behind retail park
Prison bosses scrap Milton of Leys plans to build
Last updated 14th Feb 2017
The Scottish Prison Service (SPS) wants permission to build the new HMP Highland prison behind Inverness Retail Park, and has scrapped plans for a site at Milton of Leys.
Fierce opposition from local campaigners appears to have forced the authority to re-think the original plan.
The new site also belongs to the landowner of the plot at Milton of Leys, but the Prison Service says it was not previously available.
BELOW: HAPPL (Highlands Against The Proposed Prison Location campaign has been rejoicing...
Chief Executive of the Scottish Prison Service Colin McConnell told MFR News: "An agreement has now been concluded with the site owners and SPS intend to pursue a planning application for the site in due course.
"The application for the site will of course include the normal community consultation processes.
"SPS do not intend to pursue any further interest in the site at Milton of Leys."
"SPS do not intend to pursue any further interest in the site at Milton of Leys" SCOTTISH PRISON SERVICE CHIEF EXEC
Cabinet Secretary for Justice Michael Matheson added: "I’m pleased that SPS have now reached this stage and look forward to the development of a new fit for purpose prison which can provide suitable accommodation for people in custody from the Highlands and Islands – keeping them closer to their families and their communities.
"Alongside our investment, through the Scottish Courts & Tribunal Service, in a new Justice Centre for the city, this latest milestone underlines the Scottish Government’s commitment to improving the effectiveness and experience of the justice system for the people of the Highlands."