The jail becomes the first of its kind to pass from private into public hands.
HMP Kilmarnock was run by Serco on behalf of Kilmarnock Prison Services Ltd but the firm's contract came to an end on 17 March.
She added: "The strong relationships underpinning the prison are a credit to the senior leadership team and staff who work there, and have undoubtedly contributed to its overall success. It is thought the rise is driven by increases in prisoners starting their sentences and increases in those being held on remand before trial.
She said: "We have an ageing population, the demographic is very different to where it was 20 years ago.
United Kingdom Latest News, United Kingdom Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Scottish Prison Service takes over private prison HMP Kilmarnock after 25 yearsThe jail was previously run by private contractor Serco, and the move comes as the prison estate has been under heightened scrutiny in recent months over concerns about its fitness for purpose and overcrowding.
Read more »
Transfer of HMP Kilmarnock to Scottish Prison ServiceThe running of private prison HMP Kilmarnock has been transferred to the Scottish Prison Service after its contract with Kilmarnock Prison Services Ltd came to an end. The move comes amidst concerns about the fitness for purpose and overcrowding of the prison estate.
Read more »
Kilmarnock net five times in 18 minutes in stunning comeback against St MirrenKillie produced a comeback for the ages as they won 5-2 at Rugby Park
Read more »
Kilmarnock gaffer praises 'grown up' response as side seal epic comebackFrom 2-0 down, Killie bagged five goals in 18 minutes to beat St Mirren.
Read more »
Two people taken to hospital after Kilmarnock crash sees car flip on its sideA man and woman were taken to Crosshouse Hospital after the crash on Old Mill Road on Wednesday morning
Read more »
St Mirren's 2,500-strong army dreaming of Europe ahead of Kilmarnock invasionThe Paisley outfit haven't played European football in 37 years but a win at Rugby Park could help change all that.
Read more »