The report said three prisoners often have to share a cell

The Chief Inspector of Prisons, Dr Andrew McLellan, was particularly concerned that three prisoners often have to share a cell.

This was a factor he also highlighted in his report last year.

He said building work had led to reduced accommodation and constant movement in and out of the prison.

However, Dr McLellan said this was being well managed.

Overcrowding can be so bad in Perth that three prisoners often have to share a cell. This is a threat to privacy, decency and safety Dr Andrew McLellan Chief Inspector of Prisons

He also praised a significant improvement in the food as well as a new prisoner activities area, laundry and kitchen.

Dr McLellan also said Hall E - which is due to be demolished - was "very bleak" with "grim" living conditions.

He expressed concern that most remand prisoners have almost nothing to do all day.

The report said there has been a reduction in violence and that the change of use of Friarton Hall, which is now a Young Offenders' Institution, had been a "real success".

"Most prisoners in Perth share cells," Dr McLellan said.

"Cell-sharing is one of the worst consequences of overcrowding.

"However, overcrowding can be so bad in Perth that three prisoners often have to share a cell. This is a threat to privacy, decency and safety."