Council to consult residents on future of four East Dunbartonshire schools

Communities in East Dunbartonshire are to be consulted on the potential replacement of four primary schools over the next decade.

Residents will be invited to share their views to help inform the next steps for Baljaffray Primary in Bearsden, Harestanes Primary in Kirkintilloch, and Bishopbriggs’ Meadowburn and St Helen’s primary schools.

East Dunbartonshire Council said it is in the “very early stages” of considering the future of the schools.

The local authority previously carried out a feasibility study during 2024/25 to determine options for replacing the sites.

Chief executive Ann Davie added: “At East Dunbartonshire Council, we have a well-earned reputation for the high standard of education provided in our schools.

“We have committed, professional teachers and support staff working hard to constantly improve and innovate to give young people the best possible educational experience.

“Across the area, many ageing schools have been replaced with new buildings offering pupils and staff a modern learning and teaching environment in which to thrive. Others have been refurbished to an excellent standard.

“Constructed in the 1960s and 70s, these four buildings are unable to be economically refurbished to meet modern space and Scottish Government net-zero standards due to their construction method.

“To begin exploring the possibility of replacing these schools over the next decade, we will carry out early engagement with elected members, teachers, staff, pupils, families, the wider school community and local residents.”

The feasibility study examined the possibility of building on landscaped areas at the four sites while the schools remain operational for staff and pupils.

Council representatives will visit each school concerned in the coming weeks to hear from teachers and students, with engagement events also planned for the wider community.

These will take place at Meadowburn Primary on October 28, St Helen’s Primary on November 4 and Baljaffray Primary on November 11.

The views gathered at the events will be fed back to the next appropriate meeting of East Dunbartonshire Council.