A NEW “state-of-the-art” high school in Peebles is starting to take shape.

Scottish Borders Council (SBC) said that “excellent progress” had been made in the construction project.

It added that the main works phase is due to be complete by autumn 2025.

Once the new school is built, the old facility will be demolished.

Councillor Leagh Douglas, executive member for education and lifelong learning, said: “The delivery of this world class educational facility for Peebles outlines SBC’s strengthening commitment to renewing the school estate across the Scottish Borders and prioritising the futures of our children and young people.

“Projects like this, placing young people at its heart, are what we must continue to aspire to. They represent an investment in future generations, an investment in the local area and the people who stay within it.

“It is incredibly pleasing to see good progress made and the new school start to take physical shape. It has been years of hard work to get to this point by engaging with the local community and the school to define and refine this new facility, ultimately making something they can be proud of.”

In recent months the earthworks and foundations have been completed to allow the frame to be constructed, with the aid of a tower crane, which is an unusual temporary addition to the Peebles skyline.

SBC said the new school would “deliver transformational benefits to the children and young people using it” while also benefitting the wider community.

Built across two storeys on an existing grass pitch within the current school boundary, it will feature modern learning areas with attractive atrium spaces. 

The building will also be very energy efficient with no fossil fuel used for heating, which will instead be provided via air source heat pumps.

Scott Brown, Hub South East’s project director, said: “The new sports pitch is already being enjoyed locally and it’s been great to hear the excitement in the school and beyond for what will be a fantastic new learning space and asset for the Peebles community.”