Pitching in for sports arena plan

Public- private project developers, hub South West, have started work on a new all- weather multi- sport pitch and four- track running lane for the pupils and wider community at Kilwinning Academy.

The first sod has been cut on the site of the old blaes sports pitch at the non- denominational secondary school on Dalry Road, which has a capacity of 1330 pupils.

The project is expected to cost £ 620,000 and is scheduled to open on October 9.

It will see the formation of an all- weather synthetic grass pitch and athletics track with full LED lighting, spectator’s area, and perimeter fencing.

Michael McBrearty, CEO of hub South West, said: “We have been instrumental in making sure that local projects are putting money into the pockets of local businesses and local tradespeople, so that reinvigorating communities does more for those same communities.

“The pitches at Kilwinning Academy will be a great asset, not just for the pupils, but also for the wider community, by giving them access to state- of- the- art sporting facilities, as well as a community hub to focus upon.”

The new facility will consist of a 98m by 60m area for sports, including an 80m running track and a 9m by 4m long jump pit.

There will also be stands for spectators.

Tim Swan, head teacher of Kilwinning Academy, hailed the new facility as a big boost for the school.

He added: “The project has really come about thanks to the dedicated work of the pupils and parent council.”