The construction of the new Anderson High School and its Halls of Residence has reached an important milestone with the completion of the main concrete works at both facilities.

Representatives from Shetland Islands Council (SIC), development partner hub North Scotland, main contractor Morrison Construction and the school itself came together yesterday at the special topping out ceremony.

SIC’S depute convener Cecil Smith, chair of the education and families committee Vaila Wishart, SIC chief executive Mark Boden and hub North Scotland chief executive Angus Macfarlane led the event which marks the completion of the external structure of both the school and halls of residence buildings, with the final roof construction work set to follow.

The development of both facilities has been progressing well since work officially got underway in August last year, with pupils from Anderson High keeping a close eye on the build with a number of site visits as well as the production of a monthly newsletter.

On completion, the new four-storey school will accommodate up to 1,180 pupils with the secondary schools halls of residence also including dedicated ASN accommodation.

hub North Scotland is the driving force behind the planning, procurement and delivery of community-based infrastructure projects across the north of Scotland. The organisation is leading the project after being appointed by Shetland Islands Council as development partner.

Angus Macfarlane, chief executive of hub North Scotland, said: “This is an important stage in the delivery of the new Anderson High and Halls of Residence and comes as the projects approach a year since construction commenced.

“Progress on both sites is continuing to gather momentum and there is now a real visual element to the construction of the facilities. There is a community spirit behind the build, with the relationship between the project partners and the school itself continuing to strengthen as they gain an insight into the school and accompanying accommodation that many will eventually attend.

“hub North looks forward to continuing to work with the Shetland Islands Council, Morrison Construction and other key partners to deliver a first-class educational facility that will greatly enhance the modern school provision in Shetland.”

SIC depute convener Cecil Smith said: “It is tremendous to have reached this landmark point in the project. It has been very satisfying to watch these two buildings rise out of the ground over the past year, and I’d like to pay tribute to the hard work and commitment from all those involved which has got us to this stage.”

Donald Mclachlan, regional director for Morrison Construction, added: “Everyone is just so positive about the new buildings and today is about celebrating these construction milestones and showcasing the work that has been done to date. It has been a hugely collaborative project and we are tremendously proud to be playing our part in the design and build of Anderson High School and the Halls of Residence for the students, parents, staff and the wider community.”