Planning in principle secured for HMP Highland

Following pre-application discussions with Highland Council, and a pre-application public consultation, the Scottish Prison Service’s (SPS) design received the committee’s unanimous support.

Meabhann Crowe, senior planner with Colliers International, which helped secure the green light, said: “As HMP Highland will be the first new prison in the region for 112 years, we are pleased that the planning application process has progressed so smoothly and swiftly.

“Discussions have progressed quickly and productively with the Highland Council and we are delighted to have achieved a successful outcome. Given that the proposal represents a technical departure from the Development Plan, this is an excellent result and particularly welcome, as it ensures that the Highlands, Islands and Moray areas will get a much-needed modern, fit-for-purpose prison facility in a timely manner. We expect construction work to begin on the site early next year.”

The new HMP Highland will replace the 112-year-old HMP Inverness, located in the city centre and will serve theHighlands, Islands and Moray areas.

Images courtesy of BakerHicks