The deal is one of the largest infrastructure projects procured so far using the Scottish Government’s hub framework, which brings together community planning partners, including health and education boards, local authorities, police, and fire and rescue services and several other public bodies to increase joint working and deliver best value in delivering new community facilities.

The NPD model, administered by the Scottish Futures Trust, provides for private sector investment into public sector projects, with capped profits over a 20 to 25 year concession period. Any surplus profits are channelled back into the public purse.

The new 18,100 square foot school will contain new facilities for 1,800 pupils.

Frazer Wardhaugh, who led the HBJ Gateley team advising BAM on the deal, said: “The NPD model used as part of the hub framework is one of the key methods used by the Scottish Government to fund public infrastructure where public expenditure is constrained, but with so many parties in a given project, it does mean there’s quite a complex contractual set-up.

“There was a real appetite from everyone involved to ensure the project maintained sufficient momentum, though, which allowed us to agree contracts and financial provisions in good time.

“The hub framework is an effective way to balance the interests of all stakeholders to deliver modern public facilities for communities across Scotland, at a time when capital budgets remain under significant pressure.”

Bruce Dickson, commercial director for BAM Construction in Scotland, added: “As the pathfinder DBFM contract for the East Central Hub we were treading on new ground and found the knowledge and experience of Frazer and his team absolutely invaluable in piloting us to a successful conclusion.

“The level of service, attention to detail and ability to not only understand and communicate each issue to us almost instantly but then to negotiate quickly and effectively on our behalf was exemplary.”