Education Minister, Paul Givan, with school principal, Frances Hughes, and pupils at Rowandale Integrated PS, Moira

Construction work has officially started on a new £9m construction project at Rowandale Integrated Primary School, Moira.

The investment from the Fresh Start Programme will provide a new, modern primary school with 14 classrooms and nursery unit accommodating over 340 pupils.

Welcoming the start of the project at a sod-cutting ceremony, Education Minister, Paul Givan, said: “Today marks the start of an exciting new era for Rowandale Integrated Primary school as work officially begins on their new school build.

“The significance of this £9m investment will be reflected in the many benefits it will deliver for pupils, school staff, and local families.

“This major project will provide modern new facilities which will help to create a positive learning environment for young people.”

The scheme was first announced as a project to receive funding from the Fresh Start Programme in March 2016.

The Minister concluded: “Schools are the hub of any community, and this investment will have a major impact on the wider local area by creating positive outcomes for many years to come.”

Construction on the site began in January and the project is due to be completed in late summer 2025.

Hamilton Architects is the integrated consultant team on the project and Connolly & Fee has been appointed to carry out the construction works.