WORK kicked-off this week on a new all-weather multi-sport pitch and four-lane running track at Kilwinning Academy.

Provost Ian Clarkson and Council Leader Joe Cullinane joined council officers, pupils and members of hub South West to officially mark the start of works with a ceremonial ground breaking.

Around £620,000 has been netted for the project which will see the formation of an all-weather synthetic grass sports pitch and athletics track incorporating full LED floodlighting, spectating area, drainage and perimeter fencing.

The new facility, scheduled for completion in October this year, is being developed on the existing blaes sport pitch within Kilwinning Academy.

On completion, it will provide not only the school, but the wider community, with a 98m by 60m area for sports including an 80m running track and 9m by 4m long jump pit.

Speaking at the ground breaking, Council Leader Joe Cullinane said: “We are delighted to announce the beginning of works on what is a really exciting and hugely beneficial project for the school and indeed the wider community.

“As a council, we are committed to providing our residents with opportunities to stay fit and active. And this facility will enable people of all ages and abilities to get fit, have fun and take part in a number of sports all year round.

“It’s thanks to the dedicated pupils and parent council who I campaigned alongside for this investment, that their dream of having a first class sports facility is now becoming a reality.

“We can’t wait to see it being used and enjoyed when it opens later this year. We’re sure it will be well loved and much used by pupils and residents of Kilwinning.”

Rachel Gorman, Head Girl at Kilwinning Academy, said: “We are all incredibly excited about this and can’t really believe it’s happening.

“It will of course benefit everyone here at the school, but it goes far beyond that as local people will also get to enjoy it too. I can’t wait to see it in full swing.

“I’m certain it will help us put Kilwinning Academy back on the map for sporting achievements.”

Managing the project is hub South West, a public-private partnership that enables cost-effective design and construction of community facilities within South West Scotland.

Michael McBrearty, Chief Executive of Development Partner hub South West said: “We are delighted to be working alongside PSD and Malcolms Construction to deliver these state-of-the-art, all-weather sports facilities to North Ayrshire Council. This new addition to the school will open up a range of opportunities for youngsters and members of the local community to get involved sports and other activities.”