Morrison Construction is set to kick off the development of a HALO Enterprise and Innovation Hub in Kilmarnock.

The leading firm has been appointed as the main contractor for phase one of the HALO Urban Regeneration Company scheme.

This £63 million project will see a 45,635 sq ft Enterprise and Innovation Hub built on a 23-acre site, formerly the home of Johnnie Walker. Other features include facilities for virtual and augmented reality-based scenario training; office and workspace for established companies; cutting-edge technology supported through a combination of dedicated sector-based suites; and "living labs" to enable the innovation and evaluation of digital technology and skills that are emerging across society.

Drew Macklin, Project Director at the HALO Urban Regeneration Company, said: "Today marks a huge milestone for the HALO as we announce Morrison Construction as the main construction contractor to deliver the Enterprise and Innovation Hub in Kilmarnock and start preparations for them to begin construction on site by the end of September.

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"The Enterprise and Innovation Hub will form part of the HALO's dynamic commercial, educational, cultural, leisure and lifestyle quarter where people can live, work, learn and play.

"With a strong track record of delivering major projects on time and within budget I look forward to Morrison Construction starting work on our exciting project."

Eddie Robertson, Managing Director at Morrison Construction, added: "We are delighted to be appointed the main contractor to build the Enterprise and Innovation Hub, a development that will revitalise the town centre and support the wider Ayrshire economy.

"We look forward to working with our new client, The HALO Urban Regeneration Company, to successfully deliver this project that will drive growth in Kilmarnock and the surrounding areas.

"Our experienced project team will soon establish site and begin works. During construction, we will engage with all stakeholders and provide education and employment opportunities as part of our progressive social value programme."

Work will begin on site by the end of this month ahead of a scheduled completion date of January 2021.

Approximately 700 construction workers will be on site throughout the building process.

(CM/MH)