Esh Construction is to begin work helping to revitalise the historic Borders knitwear industry after being appointed to deliver the redevelopment of Scott & Charters’ knitwear factory in Hawick.

Esh’s work will see the existing facility in Fairhurst Drive, Burnfoot make way for a new facility with improved efficiency – across energy, noise-levels and manufacturing.

The significant investment project – which includes the construction of new premises and a car park – will secure the long-term future of the site, bringing direct benefit to the local economy.

Scott & Charters was established in 1955, and an ambitious programme of works will also ensure the company’s manufacturing capability is maintained throughout.

All production will take place in the original factory at the front of the site as the new modern facility takes shape towards the rear.

Esh Construction’s regional director for Scotland, Gerard McMahon, said: “As a firm with strong ties to the Borders region we are very proud to help deliver this exciting project for the region and wider knitwear industry.

“Maintaining an operational facility while redevelopment works take place is a key part of the brief.

“We have experience in delivering such projects and are pleased that we will be able to adopt a collaborative approach to help Scott and Charters achieve just that.

“A great deal of planning and hard work will go into bringing this fantastic project to fruition.”

Managing director of Scott and Charters, Malcolm Grant, added: “Scott & Charters are delighted to have secured the services of Esh Construction, and I have no doubt they will deliver this custom built factory within the timeframe required, all to the highest of specifications.

“The fact that this bespoke redevelopment is being built on our existing Fairhurst Drive site, proposed significant challenges to both Esh and Scott & Charters, with neither company able to afford the luxury of down time. However by liaising closely together, we have been able to continue knitwear production, whilst there have been no restriction to the construction schedule.”

Esh Border Construction recently delivered a new B&M store in Stenhousemuir for Stirling-based Ramoyle Developments Ltd, and in 2015 it successfully completed a £3.7 million factory expansion for Kirkcudbright-based pâté manufacturers Castle MacLellan Foods.

It also recently delivered the £11m Engine Shed building conservation centre in Stirling on behalf of Historic Environment Scotland, and it is currently working with the City of Edinburgh Council and Collective on delivering the capital’s prestigious £3m Calton Hill observatory project.