Jo critical of proposed prison name

2.05.00pm GMT Thu 13th Nov 2008

Jo is critical of the planned name change for the new prison at Low Moss

Jo Swinson has called for the name 'Bishopbriggs Prison' to be dropped as the official title of the new prison planned at Low Moss in Bishopbriggs.

Commenting on the proposed name, she said:

"Bishopbriggs should be known throughout Scotland for the strength of the local community and the contribution of its residents past and present, from Thomas Muir to Amy Macdonald. Renaming Low Moss as Bishopbriggs Prison will detract from the positive reputation of Bishopbriggs, and the idea should be dropped immediately."

Jo Swinson has also written to Justice Minister Kenny MacAskill to raise her concerns. A copy of her letter is below:

Kenny MacAskill MSP

Justice Secretary

St Andrews House

EDINBURGH

EH1 3DG

Dear Kenny,

Proposed name for new prison in Bishopbriggs

There are obviously sensitive issues surrounding the project to replace HM Prison (Low Moss) in Bishopbriggs. One of the more avoidable issues is regarding the name of the new prison.

I was disappointed to learn recently that the proposed name for the new facility is 'Bishopbriggs Prison'.

Renaming Low Moss as Bishopbriggs Prison will detract from the positive reputation of Bishopbriggs and I wish to register my opposition to this proposal. Clearly, residents in Bishopbriggs will be unhappy about the suggested name because of the unnecessary negative associations it will attach to the town. In my view, the new prison should continue to operate under the name of its predecessor, Low Moss.

I would be grateful if you could give an assurance that the prison name will be reconsidered, along with an explanation of what is being done to take account of the views of local residents on this issue.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Yours Sincerely,

Jo Swinson MP