AN Ayr education centre has won an an award at a national ceremony.

South Ayrshire Council announced that Ayr Grammar Primary School, its associated Early Years Centre and the Archive and Registration Centre won ‘Project of the Year’ at the Learning Places Scotland Awards.

The project was crowned winner in a ceremony at the Hilton in Glasgow on Tuesday, November 15.

The Learning Places Scotland Awards celebrate excellence in design and delivery of education projects across the whole of the country.

The Ayr Grammar project grabbed the top spot following tough competition from a range of high-profile projects, including from Glasgow, Strathclyde and Edinburgh Universities.  

The project was delivered by Special Property Projects in partnership with Hub South West.

Ayr Grammar moved to the iconic Ayr Academy building in 2020, following an extensive programme of works to transform the historic structure into an inspiring, modern facility.

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Councillor Martin Kilbride, South Ayrshire Council’s portfolio holder for buildings, housing and the environment, said: “This isn’t the first time the new Ayr Grammar building has been recognised for its outstanding facilities.

"Winning the prestigious ‘Project of the Year’ award shows that the judging panel recognise the hard work and commitment of everyone who was involved with the build.

"Ayr Academy was a local landmark for generations, and we’ve made sure that the long-term future of this much-loved building has been secured.”

Councillor Stephen Ferry, South Ayrshire Council’s portfolio holder for education, said: “This is a fantastic achievement. We want to make sure that all young people get the best start in life, and our schools are an integral part of this.

"Not only does Ayr Grammar boast facilities for more than 400 pupils; it also features an early years centre; community facilities; and South Ayrshire’s Archive Centre. I’d like to congratulate everyone involved.”

Michael Ross, chief executive of Hub South West, said: "We are very proud that the collective efforts of the team have been recognised with this award.

"This project ticks all the boxes for us; repurposing an existing historic building with a fantastic design, playing its part in regenerating the town centre, creating jobs and apprenticeships and supporting the partnership with Ayrshire College and wider school initiatives.”