Public have say on new primary school location

May 22 2008 By George Topp

KIRKFIELDBANK’S new primary school seems set to be relocated within the village.

And now South Lanarkshire Council are seeking public opinion on where the new school should go.

It is due to be rebuilt in next January as part of South Lanarkshire Council's £850 million Primary Schools Modernisation Programme.

The existing site off Riverside Road means that vehicle access is restricted at the site and traffic movements are restricted at the junction of Lanark Road. Due to these site restrictions, the pupils would be required to be decanted during the construction of the new school.

After investigation, it is thought the current school site may also be too small to provide all of the necessary school accommodation, playground space and adequate car parking without constructing a two-storey building.

As a result, the council are considering relocating the school to the grounds of Kirkfieldbank Park. This would mean that the school can stay in the current building until the new school is ready.

If the school is relocated to the new site, it is believed that it would have benefits for the wider community.

The multi-use games area, due to be constructed as part of the school development, will be available for community use outwith school hours.

It is understood local parents are, in the main, happy with the suggestion.

Leader of the council Councillor Eddie McAvoy said: “Initial consultation has taken place with local elected members and the school's Parent Council and the feedback received has been generally positive.

“It is time now, however, to ensure that all parents with pupils at Kirkfieldbank Primary School, staff and other stakeholders have an opportunity to comment fully on these proposals.”