Northern Ireland Education Minister, Paul Givan, has cut the first sod on a major capital construction project at Abbey Community College.

The investment of over £45m by the Department of Education will deliver a new school on the Three Mile Water site.

The facility will include enhanced learning provision accommodation and sports facilities.

Welcoming the start of the project at the sod-cutting ceremony,  Givan said: “This is an exciting day for everyone at Abbey Community College, marking the start of a very-important programme of construction.

“When complete the school will deliver many benefits for pupils, school staff, and local families, providing modern facilities which will help children and young people at Abbey Community College to grow, thrive, learn, and achieve their full potential.”

Construction is due to be completed in November 2027.

School principal, Fiona Cromie, said: “This day marks a significant milestone for our community and we recognise the collaborative effort that has led to this point.

“We are profoundly grateful to the Department of Education for its generous funding of this build and to our project team for their tireless efforts in progressing the project.”

Hood Magowan Kirk is the integrated consultant team for the project and Glasgiven Contracts is the appointed building contractor.