Despite recent news of a reduction in construction output, Bathgate-based main contractor Ashwood Scotland is reporting a spike in its order book following a raft of project wins.

According to data released by the Office of National Statistics (ONS) earlier this month, construction output in the UK contracted by 1.7% in October when an uplift of 0.4% was expected by economists.

But Ashwood, which was founded in 1999 and employs over 50 people, is reporting a surge in its project pipeline having picked up contracts exceeding £5 million in both the public and private sectors.

The City of Edinburgh Council has appointed the contractor to carry out a £2.2m extension to the nursery and gymnasium block at Leith Primary School.

Projects totaling £1.8m will see Ashwood deliver a new build nursery and a library refurbishment for West Lothian Council at Boghall Primary School and the Armadale Partnership Centre respectively.

“The start of next year promises to be extremely active with a number of new projects coming on stream, all of which are due for completion in the first half of 2018,” said Ashwood Scotland’s managing director, Archie Meikle.

“There’s no doubt the industry is facing challenges driven by wider economic factors, so we are very pleased to pick up some strong local contracts,” he added.

In Edinburgh the business has secured a £1.2m contract from Clic Sargent to form a two-storey extension and carry out alterations to an existing building. The structure will create a home from home facility for the families and young people attending the Sick Kids Hospital.

And earlier this year, Ashwood completed a raft of renovation and refurbishment projects at several University of Edinburgh campuses including the School of Informatics at George Square.

Meanwhile, the company has also continued its fundraising efforts as part of the Ashwood Scotland Foundation with nearly £7,000 raised at its annual Foundation Charity Ball.

Over 150 guests attended the Hilcroft Hotel in Whitburn where Mr Meikle’s daughter, Ashley, gave an emotional speech to the audience before receiving a cheque on behalf of Friends of Chernobyl Children West Lothian. The remaining balance will be shared between Simpsons Babies and Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland.

“It was a special night for everyone who attended and we are delighted to have raised substantial funds for some very deserving charities,” added Mr Meikle.