The Scottish government is supporting proposals for a £2.6 million primary school in the Angus glens.

Following a lengthy consultation process with residents the council agreed in 2007 to amalgamate Kilry, Glenisla and Lintrathen with a purpose built school at Peel Farm. To allow the proposals to proceed, Angus Council needed the approval from MSP's, which has now been received.

In their response to the council's request for permission to close the three schools and relocate them at a single site, Ministers took into consideration all the issues raised during the consultation - such as community implications and the increase in some travel to school times and distances - and concluded that any downsides would not outweigh the significant educational advantages which the proposals would bring.


Education Convener, Peter Nield said: "The council recognised that all three schools required significant improvements to ensure they were suitable for the delivery of a modern curriculum.

"After a full consultation with the local communities involved we concluded that the best option was the replacement of all three schools on a single site within Peel Farm, and I am delighted that the Scottish Government has supported that view.

Councillor Nield pledged that the council will continue to maintain a meaningful dialogue with parents and staff on the specific details relating to the design of the new school which is programmed to open in school session 2009/10.

(GK/JM)