COUNCIL chiefs are being urged to “be creative” in finding a new site for Loreburn Primary School.
The planned relocation to the Dumfries Academy site has fallen through due to a lack of funding from the Scottish Government.
So officials are now looking for a plan B.
And Julie Irving, who is a teaching representative on the education committee, has stressed that the current primary is no longer fit for purpose and officers need to get their thinking caps on.
At last week’s committee meeting, she spoke of ongoing repairs and issues with rodents and said pupils, parents and staff have been patient, adding: “They’ve had a four-year wait and were optimistic that now was going to be their time.
“They are a part of the school that we should be looking at refurbishing, relocating, or whatever it takes.
“The school isn’t fit for purpose. How can we ensure the health and wellbeing of staff and pupils in the school?
“Is there another site that could be used in Dumfries? Is there another way we can look at this and be creative?”
Schools estate manager Larann Foss confirmed it is in poor condition and there should be a replacement or relocation.
He said: “Like the school community, like the teaching staff – as officers we share that disappointment and I’m sure elected members do as well in terms of the unsuccessful funding.
“However, the journey doesn’t stop there. We have to move forward with what we think, as a council, is the right solution for that school and school community.”
A report with detailed options for the future of Loreburn Primary will be brought to the committee in March.
