Feedback from engagement sessions held earlier in the year showed strong support for new facilities for Eyemouth Primary School, alongside clear priorities for an age-appropriate environment, a strong primary school identity, and a close relationship with early years provision.

A report to councillors reflected these views, alongside the need to replace the existing primary school building and the financial constraints facing the project.

Due to this, when considering the report, council did not choose a final option on design, construction, or funding at this stage.

Instead, the following was agreed:

• The standalone new build option will now be the primary focus of the next stage of work
• Additionally, the campus option will continue to be developed to the same level of detail to ensure a robust and informed comparison

A further report will be brought back later this year with updated information on cost, programme, risks and affordability.

In the coming months, council officers will continue wider capital planning, prioritisation across all services and working with government and funding partners to explore additional funding opportunities.

This approach will ensure the project continues, whilst ensuring the final decision is deliverable, affordable, and informed by community feedback.

Councillor Julie Pirone, executive member for Education, Youth Development and Lifelong Learning, said: “I would like to sincerely thank those who were involved in the recent engagement sessions and for the time and care they have put into the focus group discussions.

“This input has shaped the direction that we are now taking and what the next steps of this important project should be.”

Currently, no option will be able to proceed without a clear and deliverable funding solution. A final decision will only be taken once costs, risks and funding have been fully understood.