The multi-million investment will see both schools accommodated in one campus building, with each school retaining their individual identities, staff, management, entrance, car parking and facilities.

Pupils, parents, staff and members of the public are invited to view the plans at drop-in events on:

• Wednesday 28 October, 2pm to 7pm, The Legion, Dingwall
• Wednesday 2 December, 2pm to 7pm, Dingwall Town Hall.

The project will be funded through the Highland Investment Plan - a £2.1 billion, 20-year capital investment programme to improve schools, roads and local infrastructure throughout the region. The plan is funded through a combination of borrowing and a 2% ring-fenced allocation of Council Tax revenue.

As part of the Highland Investment Plan, all new school buildings will be designed as Community Points of Delivery (PODs), with the flexibility to accommodate education provision alongside other community facilities, council services and partner organisations, within modern, locally accessible community hubs.

The Dingwall Community PoD will incorporate:

• A new Dingwall Primary School, including Gaelic Medium Education and Early Years provision. The school will have capacity for 456 children and 88 early years places.
• A new St Clement’s Special School, with capacity for 76 pupils.
• Flexible office space for council and partner agency staff.
• A disability sports centre.
• A 3G synthetic pitch, offering community access outside school hours

Hub North Scotland is the council’s delivery partner for the Highland Investment Plan. Robertson Construction has been identified as the preferred main contractor.

Chair of Highland Council’s education committee, Cllr John Finlayson, said: “I am delighted to see this multi-million-pound investment in Dingwall Primary School and St Clement’s Special School move forward. This significant investment will provide modern, high-quality facilities to support learners achieve their full potential.

“The co-location of both schools on one site offers opportunities for greater collaboration and inclusion, such as improved access to specialist support, a mainstream setting, and participation in the wider curriculum.

“Through our PoD concept, the development will bring together education provision, with community and partnership spaces, creating a valuable resource for the local community.”

Vice Chair of the Dingwall and Seaforth Area Committee, Cllr Margaret Paterson, said: “I welcome the significant investment planned in the Dingwall area, and the commitment that each school will retain its own identify, leadership, staff and facilities.

“The drop-in events are an important opportunity for the community to view the proposals and share views ahead of a planning application being made next year.”

The works are due to commence on site in 2028, with a build completion date in 2030.

All remaining works, such as landscaping and external areas, are targeted for completion in 2031.