Midlothian Council has selected Morrison Construction Ltd as the preferred main contractor for the significant redevelopment of Penicuik High School.

The project will involve a combination of retrofitting the existing B-listed 1930s building and constructing new extensions to create a modern and expanded educational facility.

Planning permission is currently being sought for the ambitious scheme, which aims to retain and repurpose the historic original building while creating a contemporary learning environment. A key aspect of the design involves building a new extension and establishing a central 'heart' for the school around the existing assembly hall and courtyard spaces. Enclosing these courtyards will provide a new social area for dining and indoor sports activities.

Accessibility will be significantly improved with the creation of a new entrance plaza on the north side of the school, along with upgrades to lifts and toilet facilities throughout the building. The plans also include the development of new outdoor learning and green spaces for students.

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Upon completion, the upgraded and energy-efficient school will have the capacity to comfortably accommodate its full roll of 945 pupils. Crucially, the redevelopment will more than double the number of Additional Support Needs (ASN) places available, increasing provision to cater for up to 24 ASN pupils.

Councillor Ellen Scott, Midlothian Council's Cabinet Member for Education, expressed her enthusiasm for the project: "We're looking forward to Morrison Construction Ltd starting work on the site. The improvements will create an inspiring learning environment for our young people."

She also highlighted the importance of preserving the school's heritage: "I am especially pleased that the 1930s building retrofit will mean this iconic landmark will be retained and enhanced for future students to enjoy."

David Ewing, Managing Director for Morrison Construction Building Central, commented on the appointment: "We are delighted to be working once again with our partners at Midlothian Council to bring forward another high-quality educational facility for local students. We have a strong track record in renovating and extending old school buildings into spaces fit for the modern educational era and we look forward to enhancing that reputation by delivering for the staff and pupils at Penicuik."

The redevelopment of Penicuik High School represents a significant investment in the local community, aiming to provide state-of-the-art facilities while preserving the architectural heritage of the original building.