A major extension and refurbishment project in Dalkeith, Midlothian, worth £11.4m has been completed six weeks early.

Works to Woodburn Primary School were completed by main contractor Kier, along with efforts from Midlothian Council, which will see the new 2,262m2 extension and refurbishment finished far ahead of schedule.

Phil McDowell, regional director for Kier North & Scotland, said: "We are thrilled to see pupils and staff at Woodburn Primary School enjoying their fantastic new facilities.

"Our expertise in design through to completion has enabled us to deliver an outstanding school on behalf of Midlothian Council whilst being sensitive to, and creative with, the environment around the site."


The school will now increase pupil capacity from a three-stream to a four-stream entry and also be available for community use. 

The facility has been extended on two storeys to include nine new classrooms and an additional gym hall while the dining hall and kitchen have been upgraded and extended to accommodate the expansion of the school. 

Outdoor improvements feature new play areas, a sensory and activity garden using locally sourced materials, shrubs and wildflower seeds.

Log seating has been crafted from trees removed during construction, saving 10 tonnes of wood waste for reuse or recycling from the site.

New jobs and work placement opportunities and several education engagement events were delivered.

In addition, it has given almost £5,000 to the local community through donations including sports equipment, foodbank vouchers and voluntary local labour work. 

Officially opening the new extension recently, Midlothian Council Leader, Councillor Kelly Parry said: "It's great to see the pupils and staff so excited about the new extension.

"And who could blame them? What a wonderful learning environment to help give our children the best start in life while providing excellent facilities for our wider community."