Superschool plans given the go ahead
Plans for a super primary school in Prestwick was approved despite objections raised by residents.
The new two- storey building on Sherwood Road would house Glenburn and St Ninian’s primaries after it was given the green light last week.
Ten objections had been lodged against the South Ayrshire Council proposal for a new campus that features a detached nursery.
Regulatory Panel Planning chair Councillor Brian Connolly said: “The campus looks fantastic. But the panel had concerns about parking.”
Councillor Connolly said the Ayrshire Roads Alliance are happy with the parking arrangements but the situation will be monitored.
Councillors decided whether the new 823 pupil school will go ahead at a Regulatory Panel meeting held online and in private last Thursday.
Designs show pupils at both primaries would have their “dedicated space” within the building and separate entrances. Instead of classroom doors there would be wall openings leading to “flexible learning spaces” with sinks, worktops and different furniture. The schools would share a large atrium space, which runs the whole length of the building. The library and computers would be on the first floor. Outside the campus would boast an allweather pitch, daily- mile route, allotment and willow garden among other features. There would be 71 car parking spaces including two electric charging bays as well as 94 parking spots for bikes and scooters. The site would have a special drainage
system to prevent flooding with sunken areas to handle heavy rain. The design and access statement said: “The school is designed to create inspiring spaces including a welcome space, the atrium and open learning spaces amongst others. The use of galleried access and
bridges create a stimulating visual environment whilst providing passive supervision of pupil movement.”
Objectors have voiced concerns about construction traffic, congestion, and footballs entering a garden from the pitch. Children would be taught in temporary classrooms while construction takes place.
The current Glenburn Primary building would be demolished. Building work could start this year and last for 18 months.