School closure decisions
Four proposed school closures in the Western Isles have been rejected, Education Secretary Michael Russell announced today.
In the first instance of powers under the new Schools Consultation Act being used to prevent closure, Carloway (Lewis) and Shelibost (Harris) Primary Schools will remain open and S1/S2 provision at Lionel and Shawbost Schools in Lewis, both of which had been threatened with closure, will now continue.
The proposed closure of Scalloway Junior High Secondary Department in Shetland has also been called in for further Ministerial consideration, a move which reaffirms the Scottish Government’s commitment to rural schools.
However consent has been given to Moray Council to proceed with the closure of Cabrach Primary School as they have adhered to the process set out within the legislation.
Read the Education Secretary’s statement to Parliament
Further information on the Scottish Government website