Current status: Answered by Angela Constance on 25 March 2026
To ask the Scottish Government whether it will provide an update on the replacement of HMP Inverness with HMP Highland, and on what date it anticipates that the new prison will be open and fully functional.
I have asked Teresa Medhurst, Chief Executive of the Scottish Prison Service (SPS), to respond. Her response is as follows:
The Scottish Government and the Scottish Prison Service remain committed to delivering a modern, secure facility that supports staff and better serve the needs of local communities.
HMP Highland will provide a fit for purpose, community facing establishment designed to support rehabilitation and reduce reoffending.
Construction is expected by the end of 2026 and will provide 200 places - more than double the current capacity of HMP Inverness.
The final opening and operational dates will depend on factors such as operational readiness and the successful completion of additional recruitment.