The custodial establishment – which will open this summer – welcomed Justice Secretary Angela Constance for a preview visit last week, after construction work was completed and the building handed over.

The 100-place establishment is split into three clear zones: a two-storey front-of-house which forms the public face of the new facility, a central hub, and residential accommodation.

The residential zone features a series of adjacent single storey ‘houses’ – three main houses, a young offenders house, and series of specific facilities including a mother and baby unit and a progression unit - arranged around a central garden space.

Teresa Medhurst, chief executive of the Scottish Prison Service, said: “This is a significant development and an important day for the Scottish Prison Service, the Scottish Government, and all our partners, and I would like to thank everyone who has worked so hard to get us to this position.

“HMP & YOI Stirling is an exemplary custodial setting for women, but what is at the heart of our Strategy for Women in Custody is the relationships forged between our staff, partners, communities and individuals in our care.

“HMP & YOI Stirling is another important milestone towards achieving the Scottish government’s Vision for Justice.”