Dad: How much longer do we have to wait?

East Dunbartonshire Council has been accused of 'overlooking' a facility for pupils with additional needs while millions of pounds are being spent on new schools.
By The Newsroom
Published 11th Feb 2016, 10:57 BST
Updated 11th Feb 2016, 11:04 BST

Pupils at Merkland School are still waiting for new ‘portable cabins’ – six months after three huts used as classrooms were demolished because of water damage.

Since the huts, which housed up to 30 children, were dismantled in August last year, pupils have had to walk to the nearby St Flannan’s school for lessons.

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Anger has been expressed that while new schools are being built throughout East Dunbartonshire, the Kirkintilloch facility has been left behind.

One parent said the children have to make several treks a day to St Flannan’s, as they have to return to 
Merkland for playtimes and lunch.

He said: “It’s a disgrace. The children at Merkland have additional support needs.

“With the current situation, vital facilities such as a quiet room for some of the pupils do not exist at the 
moment. How much longer do we have to wait? Merkland is being overlooked again by the council while new schools are being built throughout East Dunbartonshire.

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“This school should be a priority, not left behind the rest.”

The council’s director of development and regeneration, Thomas Glen, said: “Plans to replace the water damaged huts 
at Merkland School with new portable cabins have always been scheduled to be completed before Easter 2016.

“The works are due to start imminently and the new portacabins will be installed within six weeks of site works commencing.

“We have been working with the school to ensure that the children’s education is not affected and it is anticipated that the works will be completed on time.

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“As well as replacing the huts, the council has invested in recent upgrades to flooring and stairs at Merkland 
School and we are currently completing a full toilet refurbishment.

“Including the installation of the new portable cabins, the total expenditure of upgrades to the school within the last financial year is around £400,000.

“Maintaining the fabric of our school estate is a priority for the council and we carry out regular inspections and are happy to respond to 
requests for further visits from school staff or parents.

“All emergency repairs and health and safety issues are dealt with as a matter of urgency.”

Related topics:East Dunbartonshire Council