Contractor Morgan Sindall Construction has started the construction process on the site, which is set to be transformed over the coming years.

The new campus is the first and key phase of the Ardrossan Coastal plans, which will see the derelict site completely regenerated. As well as the state-of-the-art school campus - which will include secondary and primary schools, public library and swimming pool – the vision for the wider site also includes the provision of new housing and commercial uses. This transformational redevelopment brings significant investment into a former vacant and derelict site within one of North Ayrshire’s most deprived communities.

Prior to the construction, remediation and enabling works took place to ensure the site was safe and ready for the new development.

Remediation works at the Ardrossan Coastal Quarter site involved the treatment of soil and groundwater to meet the highest standards according to UK Government Environmental Guidelines. This work started last year and is being carried out by Sanctus Ltd.

Enabling works were carried out by RJ McLeod. These works involve the installation of a revetment, creation of a new spine road and coastal path, earth movement and other works to ensure the site is ready for the development of the new community campus.

The new campus is expected to be complete by Autumn 2027 and the council, along with Morgan Sindall Construction, will provide updates as work progresses.

Councillor Tony Gurney, cabinet member for Green Environment and Economy, said: “It’s great to see Morgan Sindall Construction on site and the project moving forward. This is a huge investment into the future of our young people and wider community. A lot of work has been carried out to reach this stage and ensure the site is ready for a development of this scale.

“Not only are we creating a Community Campus, but also a range of other regeneration projects which will transform this derelict site and provide a major boost for the whole area. We look forward to works progressing.”

The shared community facilities will also include a library, learning hub and indoor sports facilities including swimming pool, sports hall, gymnasium, dance studio & fitness studio, outdoor sports facilities including two sports pitches and a Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA). There will also be an outdoor learning landscape, recreational and growing spaces, along with associated parking and infrastructure

Councillor Shaun Macaulay, cabinet member for education and young people, added: “It is going to be an incredible facility for our young people, and we are all very excited to be at this stage. We can all look forward to what promises to be an amazing educational facility.” 

Stuart Parker, managing director at Morgan Sindall Construction Scotland, said: “Starting construction on the Ardrossan Community Campus marks a significant milestone for the area. The comprehensive facilities we’re creating, from the schools to the library and sports spaces, will provide fantastic opportunities for local families and help revitalise the community. 

“We’re proud to be delivering this project with North Ayrshire Council through the SCAPE Scotland framework. Our focus is on delivering a facility that will serve as a hub for education and community life. This project demonstrates how thoughtful regeneration can transform a derelict site into something that will benefit the area for decades to come.”

Gary Meechan, head of frameworks Scotland at SCAPE Scotland, added: “It has been great to play a part in the progress of the Ardrossan Community Campus. We are delighted to be supporting North Ayrshire Council on such a significant project for the community and will continue to work collaboratively with the Council and Morgan Sindall to ensure that the benefits of procurement through our Construction Framework are realised during construction.”