The Education Operational Delivery Committee agreed the recommendations that emphasise a focus on improving existing schools before considering building new schools and, where the latter are required, that these are designed to comply with Net Zero building standards.

The plan will see all new primary school and all new secondary schools designed with a minimum capacity of 434 and 1,000 respectively, in order to support high quality learning and teaching.

The plan also takes into consideration an expected fall in pupil numbers over the next ten years and a likely reduction in the number of operational schools required. The council will look at the possibility of using any surplus capacity for other purposes benefitting the local community.

A review of existing signage at all the authority’s schools will also take place to improve accessibility where required while feasibility studies and stakeholder engagement will be undertaken with regard to ensuring appropriate and sustainable provision of denominational schools in the city, secondary schools in north Aberdeen and the accessibility and suitability of Victorian schools.

A report on the outcomes of the studies will be brought to future committee meetings for consideration.

Committee convener, Councillor Martin Greig, said: “It is important that we take this long-term term strategic view of our entire school estate. The plan considers how we can meet the needs of every individual pupil now and well into the future. We want to ensure that schools provide supportive environments for high quality learning.”

The committee also approved a motion by Councillor Greig to put forward details to the Scottish Government of the planned refurbishment of the existing Riverbank School building ahead of the relocation of St Peter’s School with a view for this to be considered as a priority project for funding.

Councillor Greig said: “Our special commitment to the new St Peters Roman Catholic School demonstrates our commitment to Catholic education.”

Vice convener, Councillor Jessica Mennie, said: “This is a far-reaching plan which will help us best meet the future needs of our pupils, staff and families and ensure provision is flexible given anticipated demographic changes and the challenging economic climate.”