Newry-based O'Hare & McGovern has commenced construction on two 'Public Private Partnership' projects - worth £45m - with its facility's management partner Interserve.

Three new school building will be built as part of the first contract.

Our Lady's and St Patrick's Grammar, in Knock; St Joseph's Primary School, in Carryduff; and St Mary's Primary School, in Portgleone, will form this contract.

The second PPP scheme will be carried out at St Patrick's Grammar School in Downpatrick for The Institute of the Brothers of the Christian Schools Limited.

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The projects will provide new school facilities for in excess of 2,500 students at the four sites. At the peak of the projects up to 350 people will be employed.

O'Hare & McGovern will provide equity and construction services while Interserve will provide equity and facility’s management services.

Both companies are equal joint venture partners in Belfast Educational Services Limited which is responsible for the design, build, finance and operation of the four schools for 25 years.

Eamon O'Hare, Managing Director of O'Hare & McGovern, said: "These projects are a welcome boost for the construction industry and will see both job creation and retention throughout the duration of contract.

"O'Hare & McGovern's PPP contracts cover 14 sites throughout Northern Ireland. Four of these projects are operational, while ten are now in the process of construction. This leaves us in the fortunate position of having a full order book for the forthcoming year."

The opening of new state of the art purpose-built accommodation is expected in 2010 and 2011.

(PR/JM)