Kier will start work this summer on Taylor High School, a comprehensive secondary in New Stevenston, and Braidhurst High School, a 600-pupil secondary in the Forgewood suburb of the town. Completion is expected in March next year.

Awarded by North Lanarkshire Council, the contract is the latest initiative facilitated by hub South West Scotland, the construction and infrastructure-focused partnership which is working with the council on its Motherwell Review programme.

The works will include installing a new cladding system, new windows and creating a new extension to the existing school at Taylor High School as well as installing new heating, replacement curtain walling and a new lift at Braidhurst High School.

Managing director of Kier Construction’s Scotland & north-east England business, Brian McQuade, said: “We are pleased to be carrying out additional work with hub South West Scotland on behalf of North Lanarkshire Council, having completed The Muirfield Centre in Cumbernauld last year.

“We are committed to working with the local supply chain to support economic growth in the area. This programme of work will provide around 50 employment and training opportunities for SMEs based within North Lanarkshire.”

Michael McBrearty, hub South West Scotland chief executive, added: “We are delighted that we will be partnering with Kier Construction Scotland which, as well as delivering an excellent and high quality service, also supports many worthwhile initiatives in the construction industry.

“We are also very pleased to be helping North Lanarkshire Council with its far-sighted and innovative plans to provide the best possible local services and facilities right across its thriving communities.”

Isabelle Boyd, assistant chief executive (Education, Skills & Youth Employment), said: “North Lanarkshire Council is committed to providing the very best learning environments for all our young people, and we are delighted that this important work to both schools is about to start.”