The community-based units are part of a new approach to the management of women in custody in Scotland, with the women who will be living there assessed as suitable.

The Dundee facility is being built on the site of the old Our Lady’s Primary School in the Hilltown area of the city accommodating 16 women. The unit in Glasgow is in Shawpark Street, Maryhill on the site of the former health centre and will accommodate 24 women.   

The new facilities will provide modern reception areas as well as a communal space with kitchen facilities, bedrooms and secure gardens.

Donald MacDonald, managing director at Ogilvie Construction, said: “After some delays to the original timetable due to COVID 19, we are delighted to have started site operations in Dundee and Glasgow. We look forward to handing over the two high quality facilities for the Scottish Prison Service in early 2022.

“Our site team will engage with the local communities throughout the build programme and ensure the minimum of disruption.”