Education Minister John O’Dowd cutting the sod to start the construction of the new Eglinton Primary School. Included, from left, are Robert Ewing, Woodvale Construction, Donal Coyle, senior architect, Peadar Murphy, senior principal architect, WELB, pupils Laura McClelland and Rhys Thompson, Mrs. Lorna Blair, principal, Donna Vaughan, chair, Board of Governors, and Robert Herron, chairman, WELB. Photo: Lorcan Doherty Photography
Work has begun on a new £2.6 million Eglinton Primary School in Co Derry.
Education Minister John O’Dowd cut the first sod at the site today.
It is anticipated the construction work will be completed by June next year and demolition of the old school and site works completed by the following October.
Education Minister John O’Dowd with Eglinton Primary School pupils Laura McClelland and Rhys Thompson, at the sod cutting ceremony to start the building of the new school. Photo: Lorcan Doherty Photography
Speaking at today’s ceremony, Mr O’Dowd said the start of the construction work marked the beginning of a new chapter for the school.
He said: “I am delighted to be here to cut the first sod.
“£2.6million will be invested in the new school accommodation and I have no doubt this will have a positive impact on both staff and pupils, in addition to providing a much needed boost to the construction industry.
“The school, which was built in the 1950s, was identified for a new build. The new eight-class school will provide much needed and improved school accommodation for the children of the area.”
Concluding, the Minister acknowledged the hard work and commitment of the pupils, school staff and thanked them for the invite.
He said: “This is the beginning of a new chapter for Eglinton Primary School and I have no doubt everyone is looking forward with a sense of excitement. I wish everyone well for the future and look forward to visiting again and seeing the finished product.”
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