Construction on Forth Valley College's £29 million Stirling campus got underway today after Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon cut the first sod on the East Kildean site.

The campus will bring significant economic benefits to Stirling by increasing its student population by 1,350 to more than 3,500. The build itself will create 130 jobs and 40 work experience placements in construction.

Speaking from the site ahead of the Scottish Government Summer Cabinet, also being held in Stirling, Ms Sturgeon said: "This campus will provide the staff and students of Forth Valley College with first class education facilities, as well as greater space, enabling them to grow as a college.


"However, this £29 million investment goes much further than just improving the learning and teaching experience. It brings real economic benefits to the local shops and businesses in Stirling, enhances the tourist experience and, of course, creates jobs.

"With support from the Scottish Funding Council this investment totals £29 million - no small sum, particularly in the current economic climate. I am sure the new campus, combined with the collective talents of staff and students and the strong working partnerships with business and the University of Stirling, will pave the way for a successful and sustainable future."

Dr Ken Thomson, Deputy Principal for Forth Valley College, said: "We are delighted that construction is now underway for our new campus in Stirling. This will be a fantastic facility offering a wide range of education and training opportunities in a state-of-the-art learning environment. The campus will also benefit from an attractive riverside setting overlooked by some of Scotland's most iconic landmarks.

"It's been a pleasure to welcome Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon to the site today as construction begins."

(GK/KMcA)