MORRISON Construction has been announced as the main contractor on the £18.5 million build of the new Whitecraig Primary School in East Lothian.
Work is due to begin on the new school in early spring, with a replacement primary school needed in Whitecraig in response to a growing school population and planned housebuilding in the area.
The project will see the current 1959 building replaced with a new school suited to modern learning. Built on land adjacent to the current school, the new school will combine eight classrooms with an integrated early learning facility behind a facade of charcoal grey brick and copper cladding panels and accents, including on some window surrounds, designed by the council’s in-house architect.
Landscaped spaces have also been designed to improve pedestrian and cyclist safety with a dedicated community entrance provided to the northeast. Upgrades will also take place to Whitecraig Road.
East Lothian Council appointed Morrison Construction following a competitive tender process. The firm has worked on a number of council projects including Wallyford and Letham Mains primary schools and, most recently, Wallyford Learning Campus.
David Ewing, MD of Morrison Construction Building Central, commented, “We have developed a strong relationship with East Lothian Council working on a number of successful projects over recent years, and look forward to working with them once again to create another first-class facility for the local community in Whitecraig and the surrounding area.”
Cabinet member for education and children’s and family services at East Lothian Council, councillor Fiona Dugdale, said, “Our vision is for a modern school that is energy efficient and supports excellent teaching and learning. We also believe that it can support the wider community and, together with the Whitecraig Village Hub, provide spaces and opportunities for residents.
“Cost pressures on construction projects are significant with inflation driving up prices. Our teams have worked hard to design a project that can be delivered within available capital funding and will work closely with Morrison Construction during the process to ensure it remains within budget. Having worked together on a number of high value projects we look forward to working with them to deliver a high–quality school for Whitecraig’s staff, children and families.”
