WORK is to get underway on the Barony Campus on Monday, April 30.

A spokeswoman for East Ayrshire Council confirmed that the complex is expected to be open to pupils and students in August 2020.

She added: “After months of planning and negotiations, work on the site of one of the most eagerly anticipated new build projects in East Ayrshire will commence. Over the course of the coming weeks, the appointed contractor — Morrison’s Construction — will start to prepare the Broomfield site for the construction of this exciting campus development.

“Public access will be restricted and fencing will be erected to secure the area as heavy plant machinery and equipment start to arrive on site. Footpaths around the Riverwalk will remain open to retain public access to Broomfield.

“With the overall investment in the region of £68m, the Barony Campus will incorporate the Robert Burns Academy, Lochnorris Primary School, Cherry Trees Early Childhood Centre and Hillside School, providing state-of-the-art facilities for children, young people and the local community.”