Kier Construction has started work to build a new £25 million secondary school in Ayr.

The new Queen Margaret Academy is being built in the grounds of the existing school and completion is scheduled for October 2019.

Features of the 800-pupil facility will include modern classrooms and interactive learning environments, large games hall, a gym, a fitness and movement room, two all-weather pitches, and hard games courts. In addition, the new Queen Margaret Academy will also be home to Psychological Services and a Supported Learning Centre, which are already at the existing school and will have accommodation for teaching Gaelic.

Once the school is completed, the old building will be demolished and the site fully landscaped.

The project is part of a £94m programme of works delivered across South Ayrshire with the aim of enhancing standards through targeted investment.

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John Swinney, Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Education and Skills joined with young people, staff and South Ayrshire Councillors to mark the start of the work this week.

Mr Swinney said: "We know state-of-the-art accommodation can inspire students, staff and parents, and so I am very happy to help get work started on the new academy which will be the 104th school to start construction of a total 117 to be built under the Schools for the Future programme by March 2020.

"I am looking forward to seeing the difference this building will make for pupils in years to come, and pleased the Scottish Government was able to provide almost £17 million from our Schools for the Future programme to help make this happen."

Brian McQuade, Managing Director of Kier Construction Scotland, said: "We are pleased to start work on delivering this leading, modern academy for South Ayrshire Council which will provide fantastic new teaching and sports facilities for students and the wider community to enjoy.

"Through hub South West, we are working with local suppliers and SMEs to ensure that the project provides important training and employment opportunities and boosts the local economy. During construction, up to 100 workers will be on site during peak periods and we will create 20 work placements, 10 apprenticeships and a graduate traineeship, giving local young people valuable experience of working in this diverse and rewarding industry."

(LM/MH)