Progress on new primary school for Craigshill

A meeting of West Lothian Council Education Policy Development and Scrutiny Panel (PDSP) was presented draft proposals for the establishment a new primary school in Craigshill along with the subsequent closure of Riverside and Letham Primary Schools.

In October, Phase three of the Learning Estate Investment Programme (LEIP) was announced by the Scottish Government, which confirmed funding for 50% of the costs of a new school in Craigshill to replace both Letham and Riverside Primary schools.

West Lothian Council has already set aside the remaining 50% of the projected £24 million costs to deliver the school, which is essential to ensure quality educational facilities in the area.

The current Riverside Primary School building was closed in July due to issues with reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC), with pupils relocated to the former Beatlie School.

It is proposed that the new school would be constructed on the site of the former Riverside Primary School.

The intention would be for pupils and staff from Riverside and Letham to move into the newly constructed school for the start of the academic term in August 2027.

The proposal will now to go to meeting of West Lothian Council Education Executive to seek approval for the launch of a statutory consultation period to allow all relevant stakeholders the chance to provide their feedback.

Executive councillor for education, Andrew McGuire said: "The delivery of a new primary school in Craigshill for the replacement of Riverside and Letham Primary Schools will enable the provision of high-quality facilities for the pupils, parents, stakeholders and the wider West Lothian community. The proposal will now progress to a meeting of the council's Education Executive."