NO further decisions have been made in relation to the future of the former annexe site at Hermitage Primary School, Helensburgh Sports Trust has been informed.
Councillors unanimously agreed to a motion in March that a request should be made of Argyll and Bute Council’s chief executive that the land not be considered for sale or development.
A member of the public asked the councillors for an update, but was advised that until other work is complete, no further decisions will be made.
The discussion took place at a meeting of the council’s Helensburgh and Lomond area committee on Tuesday, June 9.
Catherine Wright said: “We wish to thank Councillor Fiona Howard (Labour, Helensburgh Central) and the committee for the motion regarding the annexe at Hermitage Primary School.
“In relation to it, what response has been received to the chair’s letter to the chief executive requesting that the land is not considered for sale or development?
“And when can the trust expect to hear from officers charged with investigating ways in which it could be used for outdoor play?”
Councillor Howard, the committee’s chair, responded on the first question: “The position is that officers from commercial services and development and economic growth have agreed it would be premature to dispose of school assets at the present time.
“The report makes clear that consideration of such assets requires to be informed by the Helensburgh Strategic Development Framework and the education learning estate strategy.
“These are intended to consider the implications of future housing growth and changes in school roll projections, and other changes in requirements.
“The position is that no immediate disposal or repurposing of the land is being taken forward at this stage. Further discussions will be deferred until the strategic reviews have concluded and a more robust evidence base is available.”
The second question was answered by clerk Stuart McLean, who read out a response from a council officer.
The response was: “Officers are aware of the trust’s interest in the land. There has been personal engagement with the group including meetings and email correspondence, and officers are aware of the issues raised.
“At present, neither education nor Hermitage Primary School has identified a specific requirement for outdoor space or play provision on the land, nor is there funding to deliver such use. The site would require investment before being suitable for sport or play purposes.
“Accordingly, the most appropriate position to set out is that the trust will receive a further update once work relating to the future of the estate has been presented, enabling officers to present a more informed assessment.”
