Still time for a U-turn on unit

THERE has already been considerable controversy around the plans to build a community custody unit for female offenders in the heart of Dundee’s Hilltown.

Today, Scottish Prison Service (SPS) bosses are embarking on a consultation with locals and hope to allay fears about the concept, and offer assurances over the way the unit will be run and the security measures it will feature.

As the exclusive images published in today’s Tele reveal, the planned building is not without aesthetic appeal (see pages 4&5).

But how it looks will not be at the forefront of people’s minds as prison bosses attempt to win them over.

The notion that they would have what is to all intents and purposes a prison in their midst will be their overriding concern.

Without doubt, the concept behind community custody units is a sound one, and few people will disagree that there are far too many women behind bars.

Giving some of those serving shorter sentences and nearing the end of longer terms in custody the chance to be closer to their families makes perfect sense.

What makes absolutely no sense is plonking a jail in the middle of a residential area in the face of local opposition.

Judging by the artist’s impressions released by the SPS, the unit planned for Dundee will not be at all unattractive to look at and will be set among trees and green spaces.

Unfortunately, it’s in completely the wrong place.

Surely a site away from residential areas but within easy striking distance of the city centre could be found?

It’s still not too late for the Scottish Prison Service to have a rethink.