The proposal would see a new school built on a site west of Cnoc na Ràth.
Highland Council’s Education Committee has agreed to recommend the relocation of Beauly Primary School to a new, purpose‑built building, following a full statutory consultation with the local community.
The decision marks a significant step forward in delivering a modern school for Beauly, with strong support expressed for replacing the current buildings, which are widely recognised as being in poor condition and no longer suited to modern learning
The proposal would see a new school built on a site west of Cnoc na Ràth, providing high‑quality learning environments, improved accessibility and enhanced opportunities for outdoor learning.
The statutory consultation, which ran from December 2025 to January 2026, included a public meeting and opportunities for written feedback.
It found clear agreement among pupils, parents, staff and stakeholders that new accommodation is needed, alongside constructive feedback on key issues such as site access, traffic management and outdoor provision.
Education Scotland has also identified the potential educational benefits of the proposal, noting that a new school would provide more flexible, inclusive learning spaces, improved digital infrastructure and better support for children’s wellbeing and learning.
The new school is planned as part of a wider Community Point of Delivery approach, with potential for co‑location of services subject to future design and engagement
Councillor John Finlayson, Chair of the Education Committee, said: “This is a really positive step for Beauly and reflects the strength of feeling from the community about the need for a new school.
“The consultation has shown clear support for replacing the current buildings, alongside constructive feedback that will help shape the next stages of the project.
“A new, purpose‑built school gives us the opportunity to provide modern, high‑quality facilities that support learning, wellbeing and inclusion for all pupils.
“Members have carefully considered the outcome of the consultation and the advice from Education Scotland, and this recommendation takes that on board.
“If approved by the Council, we will continue to work closely with pupils, parents, staff and the wider community as the design develops.”
The recommendation will now be considered by a future meeting of the full Highland Council for final approval.
Subject to that decision, the project will move forward to detailed design, land acquisition and delivery, with ongoing engagement to ensure the new school meets the needs of the Beauly community.
MEANWHILE, at yesterday’s meeting committee members also approved the start of a statutory consultation on the proposal to permanently relocate Plockton Primary School to the Plockton High School campus.
It was also agreed that the council uses this opportunity to engage on an informal basis about the future location of Sgoil Àraich a’ Phluic - Plockton Nursery Early Learning and Childcare to the High School campus.
A further report on these proposals will be brought back to committee following the conclusion of the statutory consultation.
Read the full report here: https://www.highland.gov.uk/meetings/meeting/5354/education-committee