Growing concern

Dismay as new school bids for extension

South Lanarkshire Council are looking to put an extension on a newly- built Cambuslang school - just four years after it opened.

The council recently made a planning application for the erection of a temporary extension, at St Charles’ Primary School, on Harvester Avenue, Cambuslang.

The school only opened its doors for the first time in June 2011, but due to an expected increase in youngsters in the area, it is looking to put two temporary classrooms in the school grounds.

The local authority say the extension should only be needed over the next five years.

Lynn Sherry, head of education, said: “Subject to planning approval, a modular building will be located at St Charles’ Primary School in Newton offering two classrooms, a small general purpose area plus toilet facilities.

“This is to provide temporary, additional accommodation to meet what is predicted to be a temporary spike in pupil numbers.

“It is anticipated that this facility will not be required for more than five years and should be in place for August 2015.”

At present, the school roll is 297, but this is expected to increase by at least 40 after the summer.

But one mum who lives near the school, who asked not to be named, told the Reformer: “It’s ridiculous they’re doing this.

“It seems crazy they built the school just a few years ago, and already they’re having to put an extension on it. Surely they can tell these things in advance, when they’re giving permission for new homes to be built?

“Everyone knew it was going to happen, so why are the council so surprised?

“The roads around the school are bad enough just now, without them putting on the extensions. I just hope more people will start walking to school.”