A new primary school has opened in South Lanarkshire with solar panels installed on its roof.

Coulter Primary School received a £7000 grant from Carbon Neutral Biggar to help install the renewable energy measures.

Pupils of the new school will monitor the solar panels to see how much energy they produce as part of their 2nd Green Flag project.

Carbon Neutral Biggar also plans to work with the school to monitor and assess its energy usage and offer advice on becoming even more eco friendly.

Coulter Primary is the 71st to be built as part of South Lanarkshire Council’s Primary Schools Modernisation Programme. The £2.2m building was constructed by Ogilvie.


Head Teacher Jill Kennedy said: "It is like a big family here and it feels like we've moved into the most fantastic new home. The new building is everything we ever dreamed of and more. The children are especially excited about the outdoor play equipment and climbing wall.

"The teachers are delighted with the facilities - the classrooms and open areas provide a wonderful balance of teaching space which can be used to suit individual pupils and activities.

"Our dinner lady is ecstatic about her new kitchen and the children are enjoying their lunches more than ever. It really is superb and I know the new school will benefit every pupil."

Councillor Jean McKeown, the chair of the council's Education Resources Committee, added: "I have no doubt that the modern building will inspire both staff and pupils and will benefit the children's learning.

"This is the 71st school to be build as part of our Schools Modernisation programme which is a great milestone. But it doesn't stop there - we are committed to replacing each and every one of our Primary Schools over the next few years which is excellent news for every area of South Lanarkshire."

(IT)