The two-storey development at the BT Sport Scottish Rugby Academy will host a multi-use strength and conditioning gym, rehabilitation space and studio research facility.

As well as providing the academy players with a fully-equipped, state-of-the-art gym and rehab spaces – including a 30 metre running track on the ground floor – a second-level studio facility will provide an area where students and academic staff can undertake research projects.

Graeme Beveridge, BT Sport Scottish Rugby Academy Manager, Edinburgh, said: “Edinburgh Napier University has been home to our academy for several months now and our players are enjoying the experience of being on campus.

“The new facilities will provide us with the additional equipment and space required to develop our ambitious young players into world-class athletes.”

The University already boasts one of the UK’s leading biomechanic labs, which includes an exercise physiology lab, and features an environment chamber that simulates altitude, humidity, and hot and cold conditions.

Designed by Smith Scott Mullan Associates, the Academy is one of a four BT Sport Scottish Rugby Academies, launched over the course of the past year, to nurture young rugby talent and develop future rugby stars.

The building works are due to be complete in late spring 2016.