Fully electric £43m Bellshill community hub opens doors

A group of pupils and staff welcome the opening of Orbiston Community Hub

A fully electric £43m community hub has opened in Bellshill, with the intention of driving down carbon emissions.

The new Orbiston Community Hub includes two primary schools, a Family Learning Centre for children aged 0–5, and a new community centre to replace the Joe McKay Centre.

Council officials say the new facility can deliver a 90% reduction in carbon emissions and 60% reduction in energy consumption, compared with the previous school buildings.

The two former schools will now be demolished to make way for a multi-use games area and additional car parking.

North Lanarkshire Council said the new facility had "a clear focus on serving the wider community".

It features extensive facilities, including a new community hall, high-quality indoor and outdoor sports facilities, and landscaped playgrounds.

The two primary schools now have a combined capacity for about 600 pupils, while Sacred Heart and Orbiston Family Learning Centre can accommodate up to 85 children.

Tracy Hurst, head teacher of Lawmuir Primary School, said the new facility would inspire pupils to reach their full potential.

"The outstanding facilities throughout the hub will be a valuable asset for the whole community, in the heart of the community – fostering community spirit and connection for many years to come," she said.

Councillor Michael McBride, the convener of education, children and families with North Lanarkshire Council, said the opening was a proud day for Orbiston.

He said: "This magnificent new hub provides a modern, inspiring environment where children can thrive, and families can come together. It will also provide the wider community with so many fresh and exciting opportunities.

The new hub is part of North Lanarkshire Council's wider Town and Community Hub Delivery Programme.

Other projects currently under way include St Kevin's Community Hub in Bargeddie, St Stephen's Community Hub in Coatbridge, Gartcosh Community Hub, and an extension to Chryston High School.