We are delighted to announce that work is now underway to build the new Easthouses Primary School on the site of the old Newbattle High School in Midlothian.

The project is modelled over one and two storeys around a semi-enclosed learning courtyard that maximises the outstanding views from the building towards the Pentland Hills. Envisaged as a series of light-weight forms set within a heave masonry base, the architectural approach seeks to create a building that is both energy-efficient and born of its context: the environmental approach seeks to maximise solar gain whilst proving shaded and covered areas that are integral to the building whilst sculpted form seeks to draw on references to the surrounding semi-rural architecture of the area.

The building is set to open in 2024.

Midlothian Council’s Cabinet Member with responsibility for education, Councillor Ellen Scott said: “I am delighted to see this new, state of the art, primary school going ahead.  It symbolises everything Midlothian Council wants to provide to our communities – high-quality education, that not only supports our young people’s learning, but also the health and wellbeing of both the children and the wider community. I am sure, like me, everyone can’t wait to see it being built and ready to welcome its pupils.”

Paul McGirk, Hub South East’s Chief Executive said: “A great deal of work has gone into the development and design of this project in the background, so starting work on site is a significant milestone in making the new primary school for Easthouses a reality. The designs ensure that pupils and staff will not only enjoy a modern new learning space, including significantly enhanced provision for children with additional support needs, but the local community will benefit from the wider use of the building itself. We look forward to working in partnership with Midlothian Council as the project progresses.”

David Ewing, the Managing Director for Morrison Construction Building Central, commented: “We are delighted to be getting work underway at Easthouses. We look forward to working in partnership with Midlothian Council to deliver not only a high-quality school and inspiring learning space, but also investment in the local community through our comprehensive social value plans.”

“We are delighted to be working with Midlothian Council and Hub South East on this project. Importantly, this project is supported by the ambition of our clients which is to provide both a high-quality learning environment as well as a new asset for both the existing and emerging communities in the Easthouses area.”

   – Phil Zoechbauer, Project Director, jmarchitects

Credit: Phil Zoechbauer, jmarchitects Glasgow