The first images for the new Boroughmuir High School at Fountainbridge, Edinburgh have been unveiled today.

Allan Murray Architects designed the plans for the canal-side site and show the new facility being able to house up to 1,165 pupils currently at the school's Viewforth site, which is less than 500m away.

The site is marked by the Union Canal to the south, Dundee Street to the north and Viewforth to the east, with the student residencies being built off Gibson Terrace for Napier University, marking the western edge of the site.

Subject to consultation and planning and budget consent, work is expected to start on the new school in summer 2014, with completion scheduled for summer 2016.


The plans incorporate:

• teaching areas arranged around a multi-functional 'heart', or atrium



• traditional classrooms offering easy access to collaborative break out areas



• enhanced facilities for physical activity and external learning, including a unique roof-top multi-use external games area



• a new public park, along the canal’s north bank, next to the new school building, to create a vibrant public space next to the waterway and towpath

Education Convener, Councillor Paul Godzik said: "Pupils, parents and teachers have been waiting a long time for a new school, so I'm delighted that we are able to show them plans that bring a vision for the new school to life. I very much look forward to hearing their views.

"Boroughmuir has a first-class academic track record, and the focus is now firmly on delivering a new school that provides an equally impressive learning environment."

Architect Allan Murray added: "This design for Boroughmuir High School retains some of the best aspects of the current school, and seeks to create a welcoming environment with dramatic and inspirational spaces for learning both inside and outside the building."

(JP/IT)