Bluebell House was formally handed over to Stirling Council on 11 August following completion of the first phase of construction works and appropriate building control checks, welcoming pupils back this summer.
The facility will provide tailored accommodation for up to 24 pupils which will be kitted out with classrooms, nurture nooks, a sensory room and a GP room in addition to staff and administrative facilities.
Work began in earnest on Bluebell House last October with the project costing an estimated £5.1 million funded by the Education core capital programme. A second phase to the project will add an extension to the facility, doubling its capacity to 48 pupils. Work on the second phase will begin later in the year.
'A modern learning hub'
Children and Young People Convener, Cllr Danny Gibson said: “I’m thrilled to see the completed first phase of Bluebell House being officially handed over and ready to meet the needs of local young learners with additional support needs. This facility is greatly needed and will provide a huge benefit to our local communities while matching our ambition to continue to invest in high quality learning environments across our Education estate.
“We’ll continue to engage with young people, parents, the wider community and other stakeholders ahead of the second phase of the project which will continue to support our delivery of a modern learning hub that caters to learners with additional support needs for the long term future.”
The Design and Build contract for Bluebell House is being delivered by Hub East Central Scotland Ltd. and Ogilvie Construction are the main contractors for the project.
'Will play an important role in the community'
Grier Edmead, Operations Director, Ogilvie Construction, said: “As a Stirling based business, we are very much part of the community and delighted to have delivered a modern building that creates a unique learning environment for our young people with additional support needs.”
Gary Bushnell, Chief Executive, hub East Central Scotland, said: “We are proud to have managed this project to successful completion for Stirling Council. It will play an important role in the community in providing a purpose-built facility for young people in Stirling.”