Three New Apprentices Join Falkirk Council’s A9/A904 Improvement Project Team

As work progresses on the multi-million-pound A9/A904 Improvement Project, Falkirk Council has welcomed three new apprentices who are gaining hands-on experience and valuable skills in construction and business administration.

The apprentices — Harley Leggat (19) from Grangemouth, Adonai Mukundwa (18) from Falkirk, and Tobi Somefun(18), also from Grangemouth — have begun their Modern Apprenticeships at SCQF Level 5. Harley and Adonai are focusing on Construction and Civil Engineering Operations, while Tobi is pursuing Business and Administration.

Each has secured an 18-month placement with Balfour Beatty, the contractor responsible for delivering the extensive infrastructure upgrades on behalf of Falkirk Council. Alongside gaining practical experience on site, they will work towards their formal qualifications throughout the duration of the apprenticeships.

Falkirk Council ensures that every major contract it awards includes a community benefit clause, which requires contractors to generate social, economic, or environmental value alongside the primary construction work.

Councillor Paul Garner, spokesperson for economic development at Falkirk Council, highlighted the importance of such opportunities:

“Community benefit means opening doors for those who might otherwise struggle to enter the workforce. These apprenticeships are a prime example of how infrastructure investment can also be an investment in people — helping them develop skills, confidence, and a solid foundation for their future careers.

“I want to congratulate Harley, Adonai, and Tobi for securing these roles. Their dedication and enthusiasm set them on a promising path, and with the support of the Council’s Employment and Training Unit (ETU), they’re taking a positive first step.”

The apprenticeships have been created in partnership with the ETU, which supports individuals by providing tailored training, qualifications, and ongoing in-work assistance to help them access sustainable employment.

Balfour Beatty’s Social Impact Manager, Megan Simms, added:

“Collaborating with the ETU enables us to deliver lasting opportunities through our community benefit commitments. These apprenticeships are just one way we’re striving to leave a positive, enduring legacy beyond the construction phase in the communities where we operate.”

The A9/A904 project itself involves the creation of new dual carriageways, roundabouts, and improved pedestrian and cyclist routes. It aims to reduce congestion, enhance traffic flow, and unlock land to support the Falkirk Gateway development — a planned mixed-use area featuring homes, leisure, retail, and business spaces near The Helix, Falkirk Stadium, and Forth Valley College.