New Edinburgh primary school plans approved

Following statutory consultations councillors agreed two separate reports outlining proposals at a meeting yesterday.

The south east school is needed due to the significant new housing development proposed in the area because of the Local Development Plan (LDP).

This is the first primary school to be approved as a result of the LDP based on school roll projections which show that pupils from the new housing will lead to school accommodation pressures by 2020.

A site within the ‘Broomhills’ housing development site to the south of Frogston Road East and between Burdiehouse Road and Broomhills Road has been identified for the new school.

In addition to the new primary school there will be changes to the current catchment areas of: Gracemount Primary School, Gilmerton Primary School, Liberton Primary School, Gracemount High School and Liberton High School.

Victoria Primary School is also facing potential accommodation pressures due to rising pupil numbers, many from new housing in Western Harbour where a site has been identified for a new school building.

The relocation would also involve changes to the catchment boundaries for both Victoria and Trinity Primary Schools.

Councillor Ian Perry, education Convener for the City of Edinburgh Council, said: “The significant housing development planned for south east Edinburgh means we will need a new primary school in the area because of expected accommodation pressures.

“Similarly Victoria Primary School will soon outgrow its current site and the new location at Western Harbour is ideal particularly with so many of the new pupils coming from that area.

“I would like to thank everyone who took part in both statutory consultations as the feedback from our school communities has helped us shape these proposals. I have also given a commitment today saying we will continue to consult with parents as we move forward.”