SCOTLAND’S largest prison is in a wretchedly poor state and the case to replace it remains overwhelming and urgent, inspectors have warned.

HM Inspectorate of Prisons for Scotland (HMIPS) has “strongly urged” the SNP Scottish government to do more to tackle the “fundamental problem” of overcrowding at HMP Barlinnie in Glasgow following a week-long inspection last November.

The 143-year-old prison was due for replacement with a new £400 million facility next year, now not expected until 2028 as costs spiralled to nearly £1 billion.