The enterprise centre, which is due to start in January will transform the town centre’s Muirfield Community Centre into a multi-purpose facility for the social enterprise and small business sectors.

Currently housing Community Learning and Development services, Women’s Aid, Unemployed Workers Centre, Cumbernauld and Kilsyth Nursery and the Alpha Centre; as well as a range of community facilities used by community groups and individuals, the centre will breathe a new lease of life into the town centre and provide a bright and airy purpose-built building which will reflect the public nature of its use; provide a better environment for all customers and clients and improve efficiency of operations.

The new three storey building will incorporate 1000sqm of community space; 1000sqm office space for social enterprise businesses and small businesses; an 5000sqm civic space to include play and multi-use games area for all ages; and it will benefit from new road access and well – lit pathways which will be constructed to link the site to the town centre, increasing accessibility and opportunities for use.

Managing director of Kier Construction’s Scotland and north-east England business, Brian McQuade said: “Kier is delighted to be working with hub South West and North Lanarkshire Council to develop a new and exciting purpose-built community and business hub which will benefit thousands of people in Cumbernauld and the surrounding areas. The mix of community, business and play area will appeal to all sectors of the community – and will provide a vibrant social nucleus in the town centre. The development will generate a boost to the local economy by providing employment opportunities for local construction businesses and apprentices during the construction.”

North Lanarkshire Council’s regeneration convener Cllr David Fagan said: “I am delighted the contract for this innovative centre has been awarded and work will begin in earnest in January.

“The new Cumbernauld Community Enterprise Centre is a substantial investment for North Lanarkshire, of around £8m, and will be a real focus for community groups and small businesses.

“This new development is a prime example of how partnership working can pay off for communities.”

Michael McBrearty, general manager of hub South West Scotland, added: “Hub South West is a public private partnership which enables the cost efficient design and construction of community facilities, including schools, health centres and care homes, within the south-west region of Scotland. The transformation of Muirfield Community Centre will make a significant difference to the community in Cumbernauld and the surrounding areas, whilst creating local employment opportunities.”

“We selected Kier Construction as they are a national business who have committed to delivering local economic growth and regeneration opportunities for the benefit of the local economy.”