West Lothian Council seeks clarity on funding for St. Kentigern’s Academy
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After a motion was approved by a meeting of the full West Lothian Council on 22 September, a letter will be sent to Depute First Minister Jenny Gilruth requesting clarification on the Scottish Government’s position on funding support for the St Kentigern’s Academy project.
This includes a request for confirmation of whether any contribution will be given towards the school project.
More than 60% of St Kentigern’s had to be knocked down amid issues with Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC).
St. Kentigern’s caters for pupils from across the west of West Lothian, such as towns including Armadale, Bathgate and Whitburn.
Earlier in 2026, the new £35 million replacement extension was delivered, with the council borrowing £15m to make sure the project could be completed.
This borrowing costs roughly £1m per annum for the next 30 years, which will significantly affect council finances.
A commitment was made in the SNP Manifesto for this year’s Scottish Parliament elections that, in the next parliament, the SNP would provide the next phase of the Learning Estate Investment Programme.
The rebuilding of St Kentigern’s serves as an initial project allocated to receive support.
But as of yet, no details of financial support to the council have been given.
The motion also cited the significance of making sure that the pupils and staff at St Kentigern’s Academy have high-quality and modern school facilities.
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