Parents of St Clements School updated on latest developments

Parents of St Clement’s School have been briefed on the latest developments in assessment of sites for a new school.

The Council has been undertaking routine ground investigations at Ferry Road, Dingwall which is one of several sites identified for consideration as a potential location for a replacement St Clement’s School, in line with a review of locations agreed in 2019.

A further review of potential sites in Dingwall has identified another option for consideration, and an assessment similar to that underway at Ferry Road will be carried out on that site.

The outcome of the site investigations and potential costs associated will help inform an options appraisal for possible development of the school and are a part of an overall site assessment of each location.

Local members met with Council officers and parents from the school on Monday 10 May to provide an update on the work being undertaken to assess potential sites.

The Chair of the Parent Council, Avril Robertson welcomed the update and said: “Parents really want to engage positively and productively. What really matters is the children and their future. we want to help as much as we can and ultimately secure a new build, stand alone ASN school for the kids.” 

Chair of the Education Committee, Cllr John Finlayson said: “St Clement’s School was identified as one of 11 priority schools, in March 2018, for future funding bids to the Scottish Government.

“The Council has a range of competing demands for investment, across the school estate and other infrastructure requirements.  The pandemic has also significantly impacted the Council’s financial position, and in turn the Council is having to re-assess its longer term financial plans and capital investment in light of that.”

He added: “The Council and local members will continue to work collectively with parents, elected members and other stakeholders, to achieve consensus on the best long term solution for a replacement for St Clements.”

A report will be taken to the Education Committee on 20 May.

11 May 2021