The development will bring together a range of education and community services under one roof, including St Stephen’s Primary School, a language and communication support centre, a nursery class and community facilities.

The new hub is designed to support high-quality learning, teaching, and community use for generations to come.

It will feature a modern indoor and outdoor sports facilities and well-designed landscaped playground areas, helping create an inspiring space for children and the local community alike.

Councillor Michael McBride, convener of Education with North Lanarkshire Council, cut the first turf on the new site. He said: “It’s fantastic to see work starting on the St Stephen’s Community Hub, a major investment in our schools and neighbourhoods.

“The new hub will provide a superb environment for learning while offering high-quality facilities for the whole community.

“We’ve worked closely with local people to make sure the design reflects what families, pupils and staff really need, and I’m excited to see it progress.”

The project is being delivered by Hub South West, with Morrison Construction appointed as the main contractor. The wider project team includes: Ryder Architecture (architect), Struer (structural and civil engineers) and RSP Consultant Engineers (mechanical and electrical engineers).

The hub’s plans received planning permission in August 2024, following extensive consultation with pupils, teachers, parents, and the local community.

The project is part of a broader investment in North Lanarkshire, with five similar projects now in or close to construction – representing an investment of over £160 million.
These include Orbiston Community Hub in Bellshill, St Kevin’s Community Hub in Bargeddie, Gartcosh Community Hub, the extension to Chryston High School and now the new St Stephen’s Community Hub.

Tom McEwan, development manager with hub South West, said: “It’s fantastic to mark the beginning of work on the St Stephen’s Community Hub, a project that represents a real investment in the future of this community.

“This new facility will provide high-quality learning spaces for young people and act as a central hub for residents.

“It reflects our shared ambition with North Lanarkshire Council and Morrison Construction to deliver inclusive, energy efficient and sustainable infrastructure that makes a lasting difference.

“Through this project, we’re also creating valuable local employment and apprenticeship opportunities, ensuring the benefits are felt far beyond the school gates.”

Ricky Brown, hub South West operations director, added: “We’re proud to see work commencing on the St Stephen’s Community Hub – a fantastic project delivered in partnership with North Lanarkshire Council and Morrison Construction.

“This development will provide high-quality, inclusive facilities at the heart of the community and create real economic and social value locally.

“Through a strong focus on skills development, apprenticeships, local employment and supply chain opportunities, the project will help ensure meaningful benefits are felt throughout the area, both during construction and beyond.”