Public Consultation on Barlinnie Prison Listing

Historic Environment Scotland (HES) has launched a public consultation to consider designating Barlinnie Prison, Scotland's largest prison, as a Category A listed building. Built between 1880 and 1908, Barlinnie is noted for its significance in Scottish prison design and criminal justice history. The proposed listing would cover the prison's original structures, which include the halls, chapel, hospital, workshops, and gatehouse, many of which still stand today. Barlinnie has a notorious history, including being a site for capital punishment and the home to an experimental rehabilitation program known as the Barlinnie Special Unit, which operated from 1973 to 1994. The consultation will run until January 22, 2025, and HES encourages public input regarding the building's significance. Dara Parsons of HES emphasized the importance of listing to ensure that significant historical structures are preserved for future generations.