Inverness school pupils sent home due to ‘chimney concerns’

Pupils and staff at an Inverness high school have been sent home after a routine inspection raised structural concerns.

Highland Council said that the closure of Inverness Royal Academy (IRA) was a precaution to ensure the safety of staff and pupils.

A routine inspection of the school’s external flu chimney revealed structural issues.

Further inspections and assessments are being carried out today and remedial work will take place during the October school holidays.

IRA, which has a roll of 931 pupils, was due to close on Friday for the week long break.

Head teacher Alastair McKinlay said: “We have informed parents and sent all pupils home this morning.

“We expect that the work will be completed over the holidays and will inform parents of progress by the normal channels.”