New Primary School Option
21 November 2001	New PPP funded school is offered by Highland Council
Two meetings have been held in the village to discuss the proposal from Highland Council Education Department that the existing old Primary School, dating from 1843, be replaced by a green field site, possibly by the High School at the station, although no land has been formally identified.
Those in favour of a new school, which includes Highland Council and members of the Community Council, argue that the existing site is cramped, with limited play and sports facilities, unsatisfactory car parking and bus drop points, is unsuitable for introduction of future IT equipment, and that, sentiment aside, the needs of existing and future pupils will be best served by a new, modern school, built to a high standard, and able to respond flexibly to future curriculum requirements
In contrast, those who wish to retain the existing site, which include many parents and staff members, say that the existing buildings have been maintained to a high standard, the central location of the school is in an attractive area by the lochside and encourages community spirit, that the school has been successfully networked, and point to the recent glowing report from the School Inspector. Concerns are also expressed about the quality of work undertaken through the PPP formula (see below), the 'value for money' factor, and whether receipts from the sale of the existing site (the main building is listed) were an influence in the proposal.
Both sides agree that the hall and toilets are inadequate, and that the predicted school roll will drop.
While not a top priority for replacement, Plockton Primary has been included by the Council as a result of unexpected funds being made available by the Scottish Executive for new buildings. Any capital building will be funded through the controversial Private Public Partnership, whereby a private consortium undertakes to build, then maintain for 25 years, in return for annual payments similar to a mortgage, after which the building reverts from leasehold to full ownership by the Council. The Education Department say that mistakes made with the Skye Bridge, similarly funded, have been learnt.
Submissions, in writing, may be made to the Education, Culture and Sports Committee, by Friday 30 November.
Update 1 December 2001	The matter was discussed at Community Council on 12 November 2001.
Update 13 March 2002	It has been confirmed that the school is on the Phase 2 PPP list.
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