One of the world’s largest prison complexes is to close, it has been announced, after the mayor of New York revealed he is to shut the doors of the infamous Rikers Island prison after years of debate about the controversial facility’s use.

The violence-plagued 413-acre correction complex is currently home to around 10,000 men and women - about 80 per cent of whom are locked up awaiting trial.

New York tabloids are full of almost-daily stories of attacks inside the prison and poor conditions, and abuse of both prisoners and staff.

Dominique Strauss-Kahn, the disgraced former head of the IMF, was held there in 2011 while awaiting charges for sexually assaulting a New York City hotel chambermaid.

Bill de Blasio, the mayor, made the announcement on Friday, following the conclusion of a report by Jonathan Lippmann, New York state’s chief judge.

"New York City will close the Rikers Island jail facility," said Mr de Blasio. "It will take many years. It will take many tough decisions along the way. But it will happen.