PLANS for a controversial new jail north of Glasgow have been thrown into chaos after it emerged prison bosses have failed to appoint a contractor to build it.

Three companies have tendered bids to build a replacement for Low Moss Prison near Bishopbriggs and the result of the process was expected on Monday.

But the Evening Times understands contractors have been told their proposed plans were too expensive and have been asked to re-submit bids at a much lower price.

A Scottish Prison Service spokesman said: "The Scottish Government and SPS are fully committed to building a new prison at Bishopbriggs at the best value to the public purse.

"The procurement process to identify a suitable contractor to construct the prison is following an EU procedure and is at an early stage.

"The completion date of the prison will be determined by the successful contractor's programme and will be subject to detailed planning consent."

The proposed prison - with a working title of HM Prison Bishopbriggs - has already angered residents, who oppose the idea of it being named after their village.

Opposition politicians say the delay in finding a builder shows government spending plans are in "meltdown".

MSP Jeremy Purvis, LibDem finance spokesman, said: "The funding for the new prison at Low Moss is in turmoil."

Jo Swinson, the East Dunbartonshire MP who has campaigned against the proposed prison's name, said: "Bishopbriggs residents now face the prospect of living next to a jail being built on the cheap."

A spokesman for the Scottish Government said the new jail was a matter for the SPS.