Kier Construction has been appointed to deliver a £35m education campus in Kilmarnock.

The firm, selected by Hub South West Scotland, will carry out the work on behalf of East Ayrshire Council.

As part of the project, Kilmarnock Academy and James Hamilton Academy will merge on one campus, together with the merged Silverwood Primary School and New Farm Primary School and Early Childhood Centre. It is understood that provision will also be made that can be accessed by the community.

In addition, subject to approval by Scottish Ministers, a centre of excellence for Gaelic language development will also be based at the campus, while a multi-use games area and a new car park will also be created.

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The new development will be able to accommodate 1,465 secondary, 383 primary and 80 morning/80 afternoon early years pupils.

Brian McQuade, Managing Director of Kier Construction's Scottish business, said: "We are delighted to be working together with East Ayrshire Council on this new campus in Kilmarnock. This is a significant investment into the East Ayrshire economy and we look forward to working with the local community and providing additional employment opportunities, including apprenticeships, for suppliers and subcontractors based here."

John McClelland CBE, Chairman of hub South West added: "Hub South West Scotland develops innovative, quality and value for money community projects including schools, health centres and care homes. This campus in Kilmarnock will be a flagship resource for the local area and we selected Kier Construction as it is a national business with a strong local presence, which will bring significant benefit to the local economy."

Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of East Ayrshire Council, said: "We are committed to ensuring that this will be an outstanding facility to fulfil the requirements of the 21st century educational curriculum for our young people. We look forward to working with partners Kier Construction on this exciting project."

(JP/IT)