Strong foundations have been laid for the future of children in Cowie, with building work beginning on a new primary school and nursery last week (25 June).

It will be ready by the start of the new academic year in August 2016.

The project, which was designed by AHR architects and is being built by Robertson Construction, will see a significant investment of £6.4m from Stirling Council. The school will be specially designed to both maximise the children’s learning experience and be as environmentally friendly as possible. Detailed structural investigations revealed that the current building, St Margaret’s Primary, was not suitable for refurbishment and the decision to build a new school was taken by Stirling Council’s Education Committee in 2013. The new school and nursery, located on Berryhills in Cowie, will offer extra early years education for 0-5 year olds. The current nursery class in Cowie Primary is only able to accommodate children aged 3-5, and the need for more nursery provision became clear during a consultation with the local community on the best location for the new school.

Stirling Council’s Education Convener, councillor Alastair Berrill, said: “This is a proud moment for Stirling Council. We are delighted to have worked with the school and local community to provide a new school and nursery for Cowie. The project will have long-term benefits for the whole community; we are creating an environment in which children can receive the best possible education.”