THE new Easthouses Primary School is on schedule to open by August 2024 following ‘incredible’ progress on site, Midlothian Council has said.
Being built by Morrison Construction on the site of the old Newbattle High School, the new school will be able to accommodate 459 pupils, as well as 16 places to support children with additional support needs and 80 pre-school places. Hub South East is delivering the project on behalf of the local authority, with jmarchitects behind the design.
Councillor Ellen Scott, cabinet member for education, visited the site with secretary of Mayfield and Easthouses community council, Judy Thompson, to hear how the foundations were in place, drainage work was finished and the next phase will see concrete slabs formed on the ground and first floors followed by the installation of the external walls and roof.
Councillor Scott said, “When we came for the sod cutting in May, this was just a cleared, empty space. The progress made in what seems like a short space of time is incredible.”
Andrew Thornton, Hub South East’s project director, added, “We’re delighted with the progress being made on site for the new Easthouses Primary – with the steel structure almost complete, it’s really taking shape. As the plans for this modern new learning space come to life, we look forward continuing to work in partnership with Midlothian Council and ensuring not only a high quality build, but that we deliver real social value during construction, with opportunities for local individuals and businesses to get involved and benefit from this investment in their area.”
Billy Gray, framework director for Morrison Construction Building Central, commented, “It’s fantastic to see the progress that the site team have made at a relatively early stage of this project. This new building for Easthouses Primary School is set to be a high-quality facility that will make real difference for both students and staff.”
