Rising Construction Costs Prompt Approval of Extra £10.7m for Penicuik High School Upgrade
Midlothian councillors have approved an additional £10.7 million in funding for the refurbishment and extension of Penicuik High School after increases in construction costs.
Scottish Government support
The decision brings the total project cost to £55.3 million, with the council’s contribution estimated at around £33.4 million after Scottish Government support.
March 2028 handover
The funding was agreed at a council meeting on Tuesday, where members were advised that the upgraded school is now expected to be completed and handed over in March 2028. Remaining works, including demolition of the existing 1960s block and landscaping, are scheduled to conclude by October 2028.
External pressures
Councillors were told the additional funding is required due to continued pressures within the construction market including increased labour costs and higher prices for building materials, which have affected large-scale public sector projects across Scotland.
Major refurbishment
Main construction is now expected to begin in spring 2026. The project will deliver a major refurbishment of the listed 1930s block alongside a new, state-of-the-art extension to replace the existing 1960s building.
1960s extension demolished
The new three-storey extension will include a central “heart” space built around the original assembly hall and courtyard areas. Enclosing the courtyards will create new social spaces for dining and indoor sports, while the demolition of the 1960s extension will allow for a redesigned and more efficient school layout.
Serving the community
Once complete, the modernised, energy-efficient building will accommodate up to 945 pupils, including dedicated provision for a total of 24 young people with Additional Support Needs, and will serve both learners and the wider community.
Contractor appointed
Morrison Construction has been appointed as the main contractor, having recently delivered the award-winning Easthouses Primary School. The design team is being led by Atkins Réalis, with Holmes Miller as project architects.
Landmark project
Councillor Ellen Scott, Cabinet Member for Education, said: “While it is disappointing that rising construction costs have increased the overall price of delivering the school, we are very excited about the finished project. Penicuik High School will be a landmark, energy-efficient building that will provide an outstanding learning environment for pupils, staff and the wider community for decades to come.”
Picture
The artist's impression shows what the exterior of the building could look like.