Construction has officially commenced on the new St Stephen's Community Hub in Coatbridge, a project set to create a modern, inclusive facility serving the needs of pupils, families, and the wider local community.

The development will bring together a range of education and community services under one roof, including St Stephen's Primary School, a language and communication support centre, a nursery class, and general community facilities. Designed to support high-quality learning, teaching, and community use for generations to come, the hub will also feature modern indoor and outdoor sports facilities and well-designed landscaped playground areas.

The project is being delivered by Hub South West, with Morrison Construction appointed as the main contractor. The wider project team includes Ryder Architecture (Architect), Struer (Structural and Civil Engineers), and RSP Consultant Engineers (Mechanical and Electrical Engineers). The hub's plans received planning permission in August 2024, following extensive consultation with pupils, teachers, parents, and local residents to ensure the design reflects community needs.

This initiative is part of a broader investment programme by North Lanarkshire Council, with five similar community hub projects now in or close to construction, representing a combined investment exceeding £160 million. These include the Orbiston Community Hub in Bellshill, St Kevin's Community Hub in Bargeddie, Gartcosh Community Hub, the extension to Chryston High School, and now the new St Stephen's Community Hub in Coatbridge.

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Councillor Michael McBride, Convener of Education with North Lanarkshire Council, commented: "It's fantastic to see work starting on the St Stephen's Community Hub, a major investment in our schools and neighbourhoods. The new hub will provide a superb environment for learning while offering high-quality facilities for the whole community. We've worked closely with local people to make sure the design reflects what families, pupils and staff really need, and I'm excited to see it progress."

Martine Watt, Head Teacher at St Stephen's Primary School, expressed excitement: “Everyone at St Stephen's Primary is absolutely thrilled that work has begun on our new home. Our pupils are enjoying taking part in lessons about the construction industry, learning all about the machinery and the different jobs involved – it's been a fantastic experience for them.”

Tom McEwan, Development Manager with Hub South West, highlighted the project's significance: "It's fantastic to mark the beginning of work on the St Stephen's Community Hub, a project that represents a real investment in the future of this community... This new facility will provide high-quality learning spaces for young people and act as a central hub for residents. It reflects our shared ambition with North Lanarkshire Council and Morrison Construction to deliver inclusive, energy efficient and sustainable infrastructure that makes a lasting difference."

Ricky Brown, Hub South West Operations Director, added: "We’re proud to see work commencing on the St Stephen’s Community Hub – a fantastic project delivered in partnership with North Lanarkshire Council and Morrison Construction. This development will provide high-quality, inclusive facilities at the heart of the community and create real economic and social value locally. Through a strong focus on skills development, apprenticeships, local employment and supply chain opportunities, the project will help ensure meaningful benefits are felt throughout the area, both during construction and beyond."

David Ewing, Managing Director for Morrison Construction's Building Central business, commented: "We are proud to begin work on a project that will have a lasting positive impact on pupils, families and the wider community in Coatbridge. Through our strong partnership with North Lanarkshire Council and Hub South West, we're delivering a modern, inclusive facility that reflects the needs of local people and supports the council's long-term vision for education and community infrastructure."