A project to build a new Boroughmuir High School has moved forward following the appointment of a preferred contractor.

O'Hare & McGovern has been selected by Edinburgh Council to construct the new school. Work is expected to commence in October, with a scheduled completion date of summer 2016.

Located in Fountainbright, on a sight 500m away from the current Viewforth facility, the school will include:

• Teaching areas arranged around a multi-functional 'heart', or atrium

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• Traditional classrooms offering easy access to collaborative break out areas

• Enhanced facilities for physical activity and external learning, including a unique roof-top, multi-use external games area

• A new public park, situated along the canal's north bank, next to the new school building which will create a vibrant public space next to the waterway and towpath.

Councillor Paul Godzik, Education Convener, said: "Pupils, parents and teachers have been waiting a long time for a new school and approving the appointment of a preferred contractor today is the remaining key step to starting to build it.

"Boroughmuir has a first-class academic track record, and the focus is now firmly on delivering a new school that provides an equally impressive learning environment."

Photo: New Boroughmuir High School. Copyright Allan Murray Architects 2013.

(JP/CD)