Work on a new Family Resource Centre in Inverurie, Aberdeenshire, is scheduled to commence following a turf-cutting ceremony.

Provost Jill Webster cut the first turf.

Planning permission was approved for the project in November 2013 and the work is expected to be completed by Autumn 2014.

The local authority has said the new centre will be a single-storey structure and will be fitted with concrete strip foundations, cavity masonry external walls with render and facing brick finishes, a high standard of thermal insulation, high performance doors and windows and a zinc roof of 'northlight' design which will surround a small area of flat roof, with light being provided to internal spaces via rooflights and a clerestory.

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Once completed, the facility will provide three types of spaces. These are counselling activity spaces, support/administrative spaces, and ancillary spaces. It will also include secure child play areas, training kitchens, interview spaces and meeting accommodation as well as offices. Externally, some 18 car parking spaces are planned along with a landscaped garden area and play equipment.

Commenting on the scheme, Provost Webster said: "I am delighted to be able to start the process for the construction of this new facility. It will provide a targeted, timely and multi agency programme of support to children and their families in the area."

Chair of Social Work and Housing Councillor Karen Clark added: "The provision of a Family Resource Centre in Inverurie will fill a major gap in service provision. The proposal involves the relocation of services from the current centre in Kintore to an area of larger need and has the added benefit of ultimately releasing space for much needed educational provision in Kintore."

(JP/CD)