Parents at a school which was destroyed in a massive blaze have taken the first step towards finding a replacement which will “last another 60 years”.
A fire tore through Park Primary School in Invergordon in February, leaving the building a blackened shell.
The remaining parts of the school were demolished in April and the grounds are being cleared.
Local councillor, Maxine Smith, has now staged a well-attended virtual meeting with affected parents and guardians to determine a way forward.
Those taking part were able to watch and listen to presentations on short and medium-term plans for pupils.
Speaking afterwards, Ms Smith welcomed the chance for parents and officials to come together and work out what will be best for pupils.
She said: “The virtual meeting was a start to get the ball rolling with regard to Invergordon’s schooling future.
“We have an opportunity here to consider several options that will potentially enhance our current schooling provision.
“I’d like the parents and grandparents, as well as children, to seriously consider what Invergordon needs in its future.
“Invergordon is great at coming together in a crisis and I’m sure the whole town will work with one another, sharing views and ideas until we come to a consensus. Whatever is chosen needs to be fit for the next 60 years.”
Highland Council’s chief executive, Donna Manson, yesterday confirmed that on August 12 pupils of Park Primary will be returning to Invergordon Academy – where extra units are being set up to accommodate them.
In her letter, she told parents: “Following your feedback, we are making changes that will improve the experience for your children at the Academy.
“Additional toilet facilities will be installed, and I am pleased that the additional staff that have been in post since the fire will remain in place.
“We are also arranging for further additional support staff to work across Park Primary, South Lodge Primary and Invergordon Academy.
“The plan is to also install a number of modular classroom units within the grounds of Invergordon Academy to provide the children with more dedicated space.
“As for the site of the fire, you will notice clearance work starting.
“Once this is completed we essentially have a blank canvas and can plan the way forward and find a permanent solution for the school.
“To do this thoroughly and effectively the council will continue to engage with you all as well as your local community to make sure all options for the future are looked at.”
The local authority will start informal discussions at the end of July and then a statutory consultation will begin which will give everyone the opportunity to become involved and put forward their ideas and comments.
The chief executive added: “I want to reassure you that our priority remains ensuring that Park Primary pupils are not disadvantaged and continue to have access to a full quality learning experience which is supported by dedicated professional staff and the whole community.”
