Apprentices, trainees, graduates and labourers across different trades have gained employment on the project since works began in April 2018, directly with Morrison Construction or through supply chain companies.

Members of the contractor’s supply chain that have hired one or more new employees to work at the Cumnock-based project, include MacGregor Flooring, Castle Building Services, Malcolm Group, D&D Decorators, Johnston Joiners and WVB.

Morrison Construction economic performance manager, Jim Johnstone, said: “At Morrison Construction, our progressive community benefits programme has a strong focus on providing education and employment opportunities for young people.

“We strongly encourage members of our supply chain to hire locally, within 50 miles of the project, to ensure a lasting economic benefit for the community.

“It is wonderful to know that so far 18 young people have successfully found employment due to this fantastic project and we wish them the best with their careers in construction.”

Councillor Jim Roberts, cabinet member with responsibility for the economy and infrastructure, praised this approach. He said: “As a council we are committed to developing our young workforce and preparing our young people for the world of work.

“Large scale construction programmes like the Barony Campus offer fantastic opportunities for young people to learn a trade and I’m delighted that Morrison Construction is working with suppliers to recruit locally. This approach will bring significant economic benefits to local communities.”

Due for completion by summer 2020, the new campus will incorporate The Robert Burns Academy, Lochnorris Primary School, Cherry Trees Early Childhood Centre and Hillside School, providing state-of-the-art facilities for pupils and the local community.

Morrison Construction has already successfully delivered two full-size floodlit, synthetic pitches, designed to World Rugby standards, which were officially opened in March.

The campus will boast modern sports facilities in addition to the new pitches such as a 400m four-lane running track with six sprint lanes, two grass pitches, a seven-a-side floodlit synthetic pitch, outdoor basketball court and 13 indoor courts.

The community will have access to recreational spaces including a café, theatre space, enterprise kitchen for catering, recording studio, music practice rooms, meeting rooms and project space.