THE company behind one of the largest industrial regeneration projects in the west of Scotland is seeking a construction partner.

The Halo Urban Regeneration Company said the offer to be partner at the site of the former Johnnie Walker plant in Kilmarnock is open to firms with a turnover of £70 million-plus.

The first phase of the project on the 23-acre site will see construction of the Halo's enterprise and innovation centre, designed to "stimulate digital learning, inspire innovative thinking and provide a conducive environment for digital and cyber businesses".

The Herald:

The plans include a 60,500 sq ft, split-level office, a number of shops and a café as well as infrastructure works including access roads, car parks, a site road, footpaths, underground drainage and utilities provision, and associated hard and soft landscaping works.

Halo said it is looking for "suitably qualified and experienced" contractors to submit an expression of interest in the Hill Street site and it will only consider applications from firms with "demonstrable experience of delivering projects of a similar nature and scale", by October 26.

Drew Macklin, project director of the Halo Urban Regeneration Company, said: “This is the first flagship Halo project for the Halo Urban Regeneration Company and we are looking to secure a best value construction partner, who can offer demonstrable innovation while providing tangible community benefits.

“We are looking forward to hearing from companies who believe they have the skills, knowledge, experience, qualifications and enthusiasm to successfully deliver these flagship works for the Halo.”