It is understood the Scottish Prison Service (SPS) has this week written to North Strathclyde Community Justice Authority (NSCJA), asking its members to suggest a permanent name for the new facility at Low Moss.

The move by the SPS comes amid strong protests from concerned members of the public and politicians, who are against the current 'working title' – HMP Bishopbriggs.

East Dunbartonshire is represented on the NSCJA by Councillor Michael O'Donnell.

There are also councillors from Argyll and Bute, East Renfrewshire, Inverclyde, Renfrewshire and West Dunbartonshire councils.

Prison bosses have repeatedly stated that consultation will be carried out with the local community and interested parties before any permanent name is chosen.

However, that has not eased the concerns of protestors – particularly local politicians – and petitions have gathered a sea of signatures.

The NSCJA works with a range of partners on justice issues, including Strathclyde Police, Victim Support and NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde.

This fresh twist puts the ball into the court of the NSCJA, which will be asked to recommend a name for the new prison – confirming the SPS' stance that HMP Bishopbriggs is a working title only.

The prison name issue has become a political hot potato, with elected members of all political hues getting involved.

It is likely the name of the new prison will be discussed at the next meeting of the NSCJA on June 12.

A spokesperson for the SPS said this week that they could neither confirm nor deny the possible involvement of the NSCJA.

Meanwhile, East Dunbartonshire MP Jo Swinson has again called for a meeting with prison bosses.