Scottish Borders Council has announced that construction works have gotten underway in the development of a new state-of-the-art education and community facility for Earlston.

The facility will include a world class Primary School and Early Years facility with community spaces also included bringing learning and social environments to the heart of the community.

The initial development will consist of a two-storey education block and reception which includes a community library, a community café and multi-use shared spaces.

Situated on the site of the old school, the new building will boast high quality external spaces for play and community use with improved access routes installed to provide safer routes connecting children with their homes and the school.

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Enabling works at the site were undertaken earlier in the year allowing for the new build to begin.

In a report to Council in May it was agreed to proceed with the construction of the Campus in a phased process without the health centre at this stage due to cost pressures.

NHS Borders remain committed to delivering the new health centre but as a result of higher than anticipated costs will need to consider fully the affordability, timescales and funding related to the project.

This phased approach to construction will minimise the impact on the school and local community by delivering those elements of the building on time as planned.

The original design of the building makes a phased construction approach possible with only minor adjustments required to allow for a new external wall when the health centre is constructed.

Planning approval for the development was granted in April 2022 and detailed planning, design and development of the project was undertaken.

Alongside this, a further phase of engagement with the local community was undertaken in June of last year to talk through the approved designs.

Councillor Leagh Douglas, Executive Member for Education and Lifelong Learning, said: "Confirmation that construction work on the new Earlston Community Campus will commence on Monday is extremely welcome news.

"This facility will be transformational in terms of the education and community benefits it will be provide – helping bring the local community closer together and giving our young people the best start in life."