Kier has been awarded the preconstruction services contract to deliver HMP Glasgow, a new prison, which is set to replace Victorian-era HMP Barlinnie, in 2026.

Awarded by the Scottish Prison Service (SPS), HMP Glasgow will be a modern facility built on a 54-acre site in Provanmill. SPS intends that it will be designed to deliver safety and security through the use of technology and design innovation in a way which supports positive outcomes for those in the care of SPS and the wellbeing of the wider community, as well as operating in a fully-sustainable way throughout its lifecycle.

Kier and its supply chain will now begin work on the pre-construction phase, closely collaborating with SPS as part of a strategic alliance and combining its national custodial experience with its Glasgow-based regional delivery team, to deliver the best possible design for this state-of-the-art new building.

In its role as project integrator employing a Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DfMA) approach, Kier will explore options for delivering a net zero carbon facility which also operates as a 'smart building', using automated processes and technology to support the operation of the new prison, for example through automated prisoner movement. HMP Glasgow will be delivered using modern methods of construction underpinned by the use of digital technology to further support decarbonisation goals during construction and an efficient delivery programme.


Kier will also fully support SPS's ambitions for delivering social value through contributing to improved leaver experience for those in SPS care gained through its Making Ground programme and supporting local spend and upskilling.

Teresa Medhurst, SPS Chief Executive said: "We are delighted to award the contract for preconstruction services to Kier Construction which represents a significant step forward in delivering the new HMP Glasgow. The investment that we have received from the Scottish Government means that we can continue to develop a prison estate, which is fit for the 21st century.

"This significant capital project offers SPS the opportunity to work with Kier Construction, utilising a strategic alliance approach to create a single team ethic to ensure that operational, architectural and construction expertise is blended to create a facility that is innovative and sustainable whilst promoting the strategic intent of the prison to deliver in all areas of the Scottish Government's national outcomes."

Liam Cummins, Group managing director of Kier Construction said: "We are delighted to have been selected to deliver HMP Glasgow, further strengthening our relationship with the Scottish Prison Service.

"This important project is an opportunity to deploy our extensive custodial experience combining engineering excellence, modern methods of delivery and our strong operational capability in Scotland developed over more than 30 years.

"We look forward to getting started on this first phase of work with the Scottish Prison Service and bringing their vision to life."

Kier was recently named as a contractor on the £500m Accelerated Houseblocks Development Programme for the Ministry of Justice and last year completed the multi-award winning HMP Five Wells.