Credit: Google Street View

HM Inspectorate of Prisons for Scotland found that the prison’s holding cells, “first condemned 25 years ago”, are still in use and that they may fall foul of human rights law.

HMIPS also referred to the “outdated and antiquated building design”. Furthermore, inspectors highlighted the “severe state of disrepair” of the medical rooms.

The report said that while “strenuous efforts were being made to maintain hygiene and cleanliness” in the jail, “inspectors were concerned to see rats in the grounds”.

Barlinnie housed 1,489 prisoners at the time of the visit, 45.8 per cent more than it was intended for.

The report said: “The Inspectorate had deep concerns about the adverse environmental conditions in the healthcare facility, compounded by the impact of the high population numbers on the delivery of care. The severe state of disrepair of the rooms used to deliver healthcare that were seen throughout the inspection, and the consequent risk posed to both patients and staff requires urgent attention.”

A government spokesperson said the concerns of the inspector were taken seriously. They added: “A total of £68 million has been committed to improve the infrastructure of Scottish prisons this year and we remain committed to the development of a new fit for purpose replacement for HMP Barlinnie.”