A project milestone has been reached on a £45 million school campus scheme in Kilmarnock.

The William McIlvanney Campus project has reached its topping out stage and the development is on schedule for completion in 2018.

The new facility, which is being built by Kier, will host the new James Hamilton Primary School and Early Childhood Centre, as well as Kilmarnock Academy and James Hamilton Academy. A third new school offering Gaelic language provision, Sgoil na Coille Nuaidhe, will replace the Gaelic Medium Education provision currently offered at Onthank Primary School and Grange Academy.

The project is being delivered through the Scottish Futures Trust's hub programme by Hub South West.

East Ayrshire Council Leader, Douglas Reid, said: "It's remarkable to think of just how far this incredible investment has come in the space of a year and exciting to think about the many opportunities it will offer our young learners when it opens next year.

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"William McIlvanney was one of Scotland's most important writers, but started his professional life as a teacher, remaining a dedicated and passionate supporter of high quality education of all our young people throughout his life.

"It is entirely fitting that his name will be associated with this exceptional development for generations to come. It is a fantastic school campus that the whole community can be proud of."

Brian McQuade, Managing Director of Kier Construction Scotland and north-east England added: "Work is progressing well in delivering this leading education facility with hub South West for East Ayrshire Council, which is set to benefit both students and the wider Kilmarnock community.

"Throughout the build, we have worked with local suppliers and contractors to ensure that the project boosts the local Ayrshire economy. Up to 200 people have been on site during peak periods of activity and to date we have created 19 apprenticeships, 16 work placements and 2 graduate traineeships."

Michael McBrearty, Chief Executive of Development Partner hub South West Scotland added: "Hub South West are pleased to be the development partner for the new campus, bringing together the expertise and vison of East Ayrshire Council, contractor Kier and the many other valuable contributors, and I look forward to seeing this wonderful new community campus open its doors next year."

(LM/MH)