Born in 1946 and brought up in Cupar, Fife, I was educated at the local school - 
This news comes after years of campaigning by Mr. Stevenson together with the Peterhead Prison Officers’ Partners Committee and other community groups to secure the future of the prison.
Commenting on the news, Mr Stevenson said:
“This is fantastic news and represents years of dedicated campaigning by the local community. In particular, it is a triumph for the prison officers and their families who have worked so tirelessly towards securing the future of this first-rate facility. We can now build on that success.
“I am extremely pleased that the uncertainty with which the dedicated prison staff have had to live has now ended. Finally the clouds have been lifted and the future for staff, local residents and the Peterhead community is looking secure and positive.
“This announcement signals great investment for the area. The prison is one of Peterhead’s principle assets providing major employment and I am delighted that its future is no longer in question. We can now look forward to the further development of the prison.”
Commenting further, Banff and Buchan MP Alex Salmond added:
“Seven years ago - when the previous government announced plans to close Peterhead prison – I quite clearly stated that the officers and community deserved better.
“Today, as we mark the 100th day of the SNP government, I am delighted that we are able to fulfil a key manifesto commitment, and indeed, redeem a key promise to my constituents in Peterhead.
“The local community has fought long and hard over many years to secure the future of this world class facility, and we can now end the uncertainty and indecision that has exasperated prison officers and their families, and undermined confidence in the local community for too long.
“I am especially pleased that we are able to announce plans for a prison run in the public sector, for the public interest and not for private profit. We have a great foundation at Peterhead, and we can now build on that strength for the good of the whole community, and indeed Scotland.
“I would reinforce the point made by Kenny MacAskill, that this investment is not about improving the conditions for prisoners. The investment is not for pool tables or Playstations. This investment is about delivering a prison estate fit for purpose, and most importantly, about making our communities safer.
“Finally, I would like to pay particular tribute to the prison officers at Peterhead. They have delivered 21st century staffing and rehabilitation techniques in facilities designed for the 19th century. After years of uncertainty, staff and their families can finally look forward to the future with confidence.”
