Council's Mistake in School Relocation Decision

The council has abandoned its proposal to relocate the primary school onto the grounds of a nearby high school after strong and persistent objections from parents.

East Berwickshire councillor James Anderson acknowledged that Scottish Borders Council did not get it right with its initial approach in Eyemouth but said the authority now had the chance to reset and begin a new process.

The plan, introduced during the summer, drew hundreds of complaints from residents. In response, the council has pledged broad community engagement and clearer reassurance regarding project funding before presenting any new options.

Executive member for education, Julie Pirone, said the council had listened to Eyemouth and recognised the strength of local concerns. She emphasised that replacing the ageing primary school building remained urgent, describing the current facilities as long overdue for renewal despite the high quality of teaching.

East Berwickshire councillor Carol Hamilton supported the need for a detailed engagement strategy and transparent information on funding availability measures that councillors approved. She expressed regret that the intensity of local sentiment had been underestimated and called for continued momentum toward delivering a new school for the community.

The withdrawn 15m proposal would have reconfigured and expanded the high school to house the new primary, demolished the existing primary building, and added a new early learning centre. Objections centred on concerns about capacity at the high school site and issues around safeguarding.

Mr. Anderson agreed with calls for wider consultation, stating that the communitys interests must come first. He described the decision to halt the process not as a failure but as an essential reset, offering a chance to move forward properly, respectfully and transparently, and most importantly, in partnership with residents.

Parents cautiously welcomed the decision but stressed the need for firm guarantees that the allocated 15m remains secured for Eyemouths future school project.

Author: Benjamin Carter