Selfish to deprive pupils of new Madras

Sir, – I have to agree with comments made by councillor Ann Verner in regards for a plea for the new St Andrews Madras College to progress (“Plea to build new Madras without delay after Waid opening”, February 8).

Last October councillors agreed to recommendations to approve the proposal to relocate Madras from the existing two sites to a new, single site at Langlands. Now the final hurdle has been reached and a planning application submitted to facilitate this new school, which will see pupils educated in a state-ofthe-art, modern campus.

It seems, though, that objections have once again been raised in this long-running battle for a new school, this time over a section of the link road from the A91.

I would ask those objecting to consider this: the current campus is rated D for both condition and suitability – that is the poorest rating.

There is no full Wifi access and pupils are currently accommodated on two sites.

Problems with the heating system caused the South Street building, which accommodates S4-S6, to be closed last month during the cold winter.

While the debate on the need for replacement schools in Dunfermline and West Fife continues, the funding is in place for the new Madras College on a purpose-built campus.

New high schools such as Waid, Auchmuty and Dunfermline offer stateof-the-art facilities and full accessibility for all learners.

Now it is time to create that sort of environment for youngsters in St Andrews.

Objections based on a small section of the road are quite simply incomprehensible and downright self-centred.

The sooner the new Madras College is built, the better.

Cllr Kathleen Leslie. 2 Town House, Wemyssfield, Kirkcaldy.

St Andrews councillor Ann Verner at the intended site of the new Madras College.