Two schools construction contracts worth £79m awarded

Two listed construction companies have secured Scottish schools and leisure contracts worth a combined £79 million, it emerged yesterday.

The biggest deal, worth some 57m, has been struck between Galliford Try and Orkney Islands Council. The firm, through its Scottish building arm, Morrison Construction, has been selected as preferred bidder for the council's schools investment programme.

The project, which is being funded through the Scottish Futures Trust, will see the building of a grammar school, theatre and halls of residence in Kirkwall, a primary school in Stromness, a swimming pool and squash courts at the Pickaquoy Centre and three all-weather sports pitches.

Construction of the various facilities is expected to take place over a three-year term.

Under the scheme, Galliford Try's facilities management arm will provide a range of services for ten years including building and grounds maintenance.

Greg Fitzgerald, chief executive of Galliford Try, said: "We're delighted to build on our experience of major education schemes through this key role with the Orkney Islands Council.

"We look forward to working closely with all our partners and communities to develop high quality facilities which will modernise the provision of local services."

Meanwhile, construction and regeneration outfit Morgan Sindall has been awarded a 22m contract from North Lanarkshire Council as part of the latter's 250m schools and centres programme.

The work will involve building the Chryston High School and Cultural Centre.

The school will feature 50 classrooms, a games hall, fitness studio and an all-weather sports pitch, while the cultural centre will replace the local library and community hall. Work is expected to be completed in time for the 2012 autumn term.