Delay to construction work at Loanhead Primary

Work stopped on Monday 23 March when restrictions were announced by the Scottish Government. Employees from across the Council are liaising closely with Ashleigh Construction and it is anticipated that, in line with Scottish Government guidance, preparations for a return to the site will begin on Monday 1 June. This will involve preparing the site for physical distancing and putting protective measures in place for operatives.

Once the contractor is back on site, they will be in a position to draw up a revised programme of works and set a completion date.

Linda McAulay-Griffiths, Head of Education said: “The extensive programme of works at Loanhead Primary had been progressing well and were on schedule for a July completion before the Scottish Government restrictions came into force on Monday 23 March. This means that the build has been delayed and staff and pupils will remain at Kirkstyle Campus until the build is completed.

“We are very hopeful that Loanhead Primary will open early next year, however this is in no way certain. We are liaising closely with Ashleigh Construction and the Scottish Government regarding any guidance relating to the commencement of construction work.

“It is also important to note that one of the main subcontractors working on the site, CBC Stone, sadly went into administration recently. A revised programme of works and a new proposed date of completion will therefore not be known until the end of June.”

Councillor Fiona Campbell, Cabinet Member for Skills and Learning said: “I know how disappointed our parents, carers and young people must be. We had a wonderful event at the school back in January when we buried a time capsule and the enthusiasm and excitement of the children was very uplifting.

“Covid-19 has impacted on all aspects of life and it is a time of great uncertainty. I want our parents and carers to know that we are working very hard to ensure that the build will progress as soon as possible. Teams from across the Council are liaising closely with the Scottish Government and Ashleigh Construction. We will ensure that the build, and any arrangements made for young people returning in August, will be in line with Scottish Government guidance and will keep you updated in the coming weeks.”

The works at Loanhead Primary School include a new Early Childhood Centre that will feature a light, bright and modern flexible dining/activity area and will have the capacity for 42 children. A new fully glazed structure will provide a link from the primary school through to the extension. Other works within the primary school include the installation of a new lift rising through the school atrium, and external ramps which will ensure inclusive access to all main levels of the existing school.

New toilets will be installed on all levels, including accessible facilities and a new changing facility, while the former janitor’s house, which was previously used as the school kitchen/dining hall, will be refurbished to provide accommodation for the PEACE Group (Breakfast Club and After School Club). Externally there will be new play areas and landscaping together with dedicated off street parking accessible from Loanhead Street.