Main contractor appointed as Penicuik High School project moves into construction phase
The project to refurbish and extend Penicuik High School has reached an important milestone with the appointment of main contractor Morrison Construction.
Next stage
The appointment marks the move from several years of planning and design into the construction phase of the project.
Modern extension
The £55.3 million project, supported by funding from the Scottish Government, will see the historic 1930s school building refurbished while a new, modern extension is built to replace the existing 1960s block.
Preparatory work underway
With work to prepare the site underway, the Cabinet Member for Education Councillor Ellen Scott and ward councillors, Debbi McCall, Connor McManus and Willie McEwan visited the school to hear more about next steps. The main building programme starts in summer 2026. During this phase, the new school building will be constructed while the 1930s building is carefully refurbished.
Ready in 2028
The new building is expected to be ready for pupils and staff to move into by spring 2028.
Improving the grounds
Once the new school is open, the final phase of the project will begin. This will include demolishing the old 1960s block and improving the surrounding grounds with new landscaping. The full project is expected to be completed by autumn 2028.
Central 'heart'
The new three-storey extension will feature a large central “heart” space built around the original assembly hall and courtyard areas. Enclosing the courtyards will create bright indoor social spaces for dining, sports and events.
Modern and energy-efficient
When complete, the modernised, energy-efficient school will have space for up to 945 pupils, including dedicated provision for 24 young people with Additional Support Needs. The improved facilities will also benefit the wider community.
Taking shape
Midlothian Council Cabinet Member for Education, Ellen Scott, said: “Appointing the main contractor is a major step forward for the Penicuik High School project and for the whole community. It’s exciting to see the project moving into the construction phase and to watch the new school begin to take shape.”
Helping realise the council's vision
David Ewing, Managing Director of Morrison Construction Building Central, commented: “We are delighted to be working Midlothian Council on this important project to create a high-quality educational facility for the community of Penicuik. Morrison Construction’s strong track record in combining new-build with sympathetic and sustainable refurbishment of existing buildings, means we are well-placed to realise the council's vision, and we look forward to working with them and all the other stakeholders involved to deliver for the staff and students.”
For future updates or public queries, please visit the Refurbishment and Expansion page on the school website.
In the picture
From left to right at the back are: Morrison Construction Project Director Alan May, Head Teacher Craig Biddick, Midlothian Council Senior Project Manager James McQuaker, ward councillors Willie McEwan and Connor McManus. In the front row from left to right are: Cabinet Member for Education Ellen Scott, ward councillor Debbi McCall and Midlothian Council Project Manager Anna McGowan.