Topic Education, communities
Date 15 May 2025
Morrison Construction’s Building Central business has officially broken ground on the new St Stephen’s Community Hub in Coatbridge, marking the beginning of a major investment in education and community infrastructure in North Lanarkshire.
The hub, being delivered in partnership with hub South West for North Lanarkshire Council, will bring together a range of key services in one modern and inclusive facility. These include a new primary school building for St Stephen’s, a language and communication support centre, a nursery class and facilities for wider community use. Designed to support high-quality learning and teaching, the development will also offer modern sports facilities and outdoor play areas to benefit both pupils and local residents.
The hub has been designed by Ryder Architecture, with Struer acting as structural and civil engineers, and RSP Consultant Engineers responsible for mechanical and electrical engineering.
Councillor Michael McBride, Convener of Education with North Lanarkshire Council, said: “It’s fantastic to see work starting on the St Stephen’s Community Hub. This is a major investment in our schools and neighbourhoods. The new hub will provide a superb environment for learning while offering high-quality facilities for the whole community. We’ve worked closely with local people to make sure the design reflects what families, pupils and staff really need, and I’m excited to see it progress.”
Ricky Brown, Operations Director for Hub South West, commented: "We’re proud to see work commencing on the St Stephen’s Community Hub – a fantastic project delivered in partnership with North Lanarkshire Council and Morrison Construction. This development will not only provide high-quality, inclusive facilities at the heart of the community but will also create real economic and social value locally. Through a strong focus on skills development, apprenticeships, local employment and supply chain opportunities, the project will help ensure meaningful benefits are felt throughout the area, both during construction and beyond."
Planning permission was granted in August 2024 following significant engagement with pupils, teachers, parents and local residents. The project is part of a wider £160m investment in North Lanarkshire’s school estate, with five community hub developments either underway or approaching construction, including new facilities in Bellshill, Bargeddie, Gartcosh, and an extension to Chryston High School.
David Ewing, Managing Director for Morrison Construction’s Building Central business, commented: “We are proud to begin work on a project that will have a lasting positive impact on pupils, families and the wider community in Coatbridge.
“Through our strong partnership with North Lanarkshire Council and hub South West, we’re delivering a modern, inclusive facility that reflects the needs of local people and supports the Council’s long-term vision for education and community infrastructure.”