New Nairn Academy plan set to be approved
COUNCILLORS will be asked to formally approve plans for a new Nairn Academy building next week.
A long time in the pipeline, the plans will come before members of the south planning applications committee next Tuesday (June 18) with a recommendation from officers that they are approved.
Assuming councillors agree the new three-storey school will be built on land adjacent to the current academy in Duncan Drive, accommodating up to 720 pupils.
Objection raised over plans for new Nairn Academy
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The build will also include associated car parking and a new on-site energy centre.
While the current academy building will be demolished its synthetic pitch and grass pitch will be retained alongside a new 60m x 40m synthetic grass pitch and multi-use games area, a 100m running track, new games hall, gym and fitness suite.
Concerns have been raised previously over suggestions that Nairn’s High Street public library could be moved to the new academy, raising fears about accessibility.
This is acknowledged in the report going to councillors at next week’s meeting.
Although they are also advised this is “not a material planning consideration”, with library provision within schools not something that falls under planning control, they are also told: “Notwithstanding the above, members will wish to note that in response, the applicant has stated that: ‘No decision has been made to move the public library at this time.’”
The report continues: “The proposed development is considered to present a significant and welcome opportunity to replace the existing school with a modern, fit-for-purpose building as well as providing an opportunity to enhance existing sport and recreational facilities that will benefit school students as well as the wider community.”
Several conditions have also been attached to the presumptive permission including the completion of a noise impact assessment that takes account of potential disturbance to nearby residents given that the new school’s leisure facilities will also be available for use by the general public; archaeological works to be carried out before construction begins;and a new pedestrian crossing to be created - at a site to be determined - prior to the new school becoming operational.
