Deadline fears as Alness Academy hit by delay

FEARS have been flagged that a new Easter Ross secondary school build is already falling behind schedule.

Echoing concerns raised at a planning meeting by fellow Cromarty Firth councillor Mike Finlayson, SNP group leader Maxine Smith sought clarification from officials about the cause of "continual delays in the market pricing of the various works" at Alness Academy.

She said: "To have a delay at this early stage is really worrying. We know it has to be finished on time."

Planning director Stuart Black said: "Site works are progressing well but it’s still going to be challenging to meet the April 2020 deadline set by Scottish Government.

"What’s been happening is because the construction sector is very busy they’re getting limited responses in some of the work packages, and also people are asking for more time to put the bids together. Because of these delays, we’re progressing with advanced works.

"We’ve already been doing such things as foundation works, we’re pushing on with a second phase of advance works.

"Be assured that Kier (Construction) are on site. They’re doing advanced works and we’re pushing very, very hard to get this contract signed because we’ll then get the main contract underway and get the thing delivered."

The building will comprise a two-storey main teaching block with kitchen, dining and assembly spaces; and a sports community building housing a six-lane 25m swimming pool, four court games halls and a gymnasium.

Two new 3G artificial pitches and informal playing fields, a learning garden and a greenhouse are also included.

The new school will be built beside the existing Alness Academy, which will remain operational meantime.