CELLS at a maximum security jail near Evesham are to be given a revamp under a refurbishment scheme which will cost at least £1m.

The first move will be to redecorate cells in four wings if a planning application by Long Lartin, submitted to Wychavon District Council, is approved.

The work, which could take up to three years, includes decorating, plastering and window replacement.

Cells in four of the living units, for prisoners at all categories at the top security establishment at South Littleton would be upgraded, said the prison's head of work services, Roy Ansell.

"It's a long-term project, to start, possibly, in January," said Mr Ansell.

"Two of the wings were upgraded about five years ago. This is just the remaining four."

He explained that the refurbishment is undertaken as and when funds are available and the cost of this project would be "more than a million" and could be " a few million."