A NEW school extension will make a 'huge difference' to pupils, Annabnk's head teacher Education for pupils at Annbank Primary School is set to be transformed as work gets underway on a significant new extension.

The South Ayrshire Council project will deliver a new focal point for the communities of Annbank and Mossblown, while also allowing the local library to move to a new purpose-built facility.

The £1.6m project will provide a new gym hall, as well as a separate multi-use dining hall, which will also be available for use by the local community. Other features include: accessible changing rooms, a new kitchen, substantial storage space, and new PE equipment and chairs.

The main contractor for the project will be Prestwick based, Ashleigh (Scotland). The building was designed by South Ayrshire Council Professional Design Services.

Head teacher at Annbank Primary, Davina Chalmers, said the project was a major addition, “This striking new extension’s going to make a huge difference to both the pupils and the public.

“With a brand new gym and dining hall, we’ll also be creating a focal point for the school that will also be widely used by the community.

“Everyone at the school is looking forward to the new wing opening next year, when this fantastic new facility will help to transform the way we work.”

The project also paves the way for the existing Mossblown Branch Library to be relocated to the school, creating a custom built, modern space that will be used by pupils and the wider community.

Donald Gillies, South Ayrshire Council’s Head of Property and Risk, said the project would deliver significant improvements to the local community, “This project is part of a significant investment in South Ayrshire schools that will safeguard education for the local community for generations to come.

“The extension will greatly improve the facilities on offer while also giving the public far greater access to a new purpose-built extension and a brand new library

“With the main work now getting underway, I’m confident people will like what they see when the doors open next year.”

Initial work will see the demolition of the existing janitor’s house on the school campus. The main contract works are due to begin on 13 June 2016, with completion expected by February 2017.