THIRTEEN weeks of ‘enabling works’ for a new Galashiels Academy are set to start on Monday (February 6).

The demolition of part of the existing school’s creative design technology wing, playground clearances and tree protections are among the tasks planned.

The main works for the ‘state-of-the-art’ community campus are expected to commence later in the year, according to the council.

A Scottish Borders Council (SBC) spokesperson said: “During the February mid-term break commencing Monday, February 13, the access route to the school from the bus drop off area on Livingston Place will be closed.

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“The path network from the bus drop off area towards the main school access road (past the nursing home and church) will remain open for all children and visitors when the school opens after the break. This will remain in place until the main phase one works are complete.”

The development, which will replace the existing Galashiels Academy, won unanimous backing with SBC’s planning committee back in September.

It will be constructed within the existing school boundary and on a portion of the town’s Scott Park.