The contract was awarded utilising the national Scape major works procurement framework.

The proposed 100-pupil facility for North Uist and Berneray should be ready in summer 2016 and will replace the present Lochmaddy, Paible and Carinish primary schools.

The centralised facility will be constructed on the existing Paible School site at Bayhead on the west side of the island.

It will include a nursery, flood-lit multi-use games area, a flood-lit synthetic grass pitch and car parking.

The proposed layout of the school remains as outlined during the design consultation process and includes a 100 pupil design capacity in addition to 0-5 Early Learning and Childcare accommodation provision. The External Works will include car and bus parking and drop-off facilities, hard-play areas including the Multi Use Games Area (MUGA), 3G synthetic pitch, environmental garden and polytunnel and planting area.

To combat the risk of flooding the floor of the school will be heightened above potential water levels. Gabion baskets filled with excavated material from the site will create terraces flanked by railings.

The current programme envisages the former secondary wing and the former Head Teacher’s House both being demolished in May.

The local authority anticipates being awarded some £2.24m from the Scottish Government, with the remainder of the funds coming from its own budget.

Western Isles chair of education and children’s services, Catriona Stewart, said: “I am delighted that the project has reached this key milestone.”