Conditions at Craiginches are under the spotlight

A report on Aberdeen Prison - also known as Craiginches - said overcrowding, visiting arrangements and long-term prisoners' needs still required attention.

But Andrew McLellan praised staff for working in difficult conditions and trying to find activities for inmates.

A report 12 months ago said the prison had deteriorated over time and staff morale was at an all-time low.

Craiginches Prison While much has been achieved, the high levels of overcrowding are still worrying Andrew McLellan Chief Inspector of Prisons

The prison, which was built in 1890, houses 215 prisoners in a jail whose capacity is 155.

Dr McLellan, who replaced Clive Fairweather as chief inspector of Scotland's prisons, said the latest inspection proved progress had been made.

He said: "While much has been achieved, the high levels of overcrowding are still worrying, and prevent the prison from doing everything it would like to do.

"In addition, the arrangements for visitors are as bad as ever and very little is being done to address the needs of long-term prisoners."

'Filthy' hall

Staff and management had tried to improve the prison which last year was showing "real signs of strain", he said.

Dr McLellan added: "A new structure has been put in place to address induction, short term offender needs assessment, throughcare and addictions.

"A local drug strategy is in place and addictions work has improved. So too has health care."

B Hall, which had been described as "filthy" last year, had also improved, he said.

A Scottish Executive spokeswoman said the prison had made considerable improvements and it was encouraging to see management making progress.

The Scottish Prison Service (SPS) said it welcomed the "fair and balanced" report and was happy improvements had been made.

'Living conditions'

A spokesman said: "It (the report) notes that there have been no escapes, the level of assaults was within targets and new measures are in place aimed at further reducing violence.

"Despite the age of the buildings and limited space available, progress has been in the general living conditions in B Hall and the prison is clean and tidy.

"The SPS accepts that there are still accommodation difficulties particularly in relation to the visits room, prisoner reception, A Hall and the health centre.