School’s new roof helping to bring estate up to scratch

Work on a new roof for a Fife primary school is expected to be finished in time for pupils returning for the start of the new term.

Balmullo Primary School is getting a replacement roof finish, improved insulation and new roof lights. Solar panels are also being installed to generate electricity for the school’s own use and help reduce its energy bills.

The cost of the improvements package will amount to around £190,000.

The work comes after Balmullo received a “poor” rating from Fife Council officers last year.

Tay Bridgehead councillor Jonny Tepp said he understood the improvements would bring it up to a B, or “good” grade when the next condition report is compiled for the Scottish Government.

Liberal Democrat Mr Tepp said: “Last year Balmullo Primary was rated at C or ‘Poor’ condition.

“We have been reassured that this did not mean that the school was not suitable for teaching purposes last year, but clearly if the roof of a building is in a less than good condition this is a worry.”

Fellow Lib Dem Tim Brett said he would now be making the case for a comprehensive upgrade to be carried out at Leuchars Primary.

“We are really pleased to see this,” he added.

“In Tay Bridgehead only Leuchars Primary is now rated at C or ‘poor’ condition.

“We understand that it would require significant investment to bring it up to a B or ‘good’ rating.

“We will continue to press for this as our minimum expectation for the school estate in the Tay Bridgehead area.”