JOHNSTONE High School’s Parent Council has been awarded £6,500 to give the school a more welcoming appearance.

The Local Area Committee (LAC) funding will be spent on new outside seating, a garden and providing sporting and exercise facilities.

Diane Spence, who is the chairwoman of the parent council, said: “The main idea is to make the outside of the school a welcoming environment.

“It will be beneficial for the pupils’ health and wellbeing having this social space.

“This is the first time we have applied for LAC funding so we are delighted to obtain it and grateful for the support.

“Along with other fundraising events and possibly applying for other grants, we can ensure that we can have a strong school community.”

However, independent councillor Andy Doig is disappointed the parent council received £3,500 less than the £10,000 they applied for.

He told the Gazette: “I am disgusted that a very reasonable application for £10,000 to massively expand seating area in the school grounds has been slashed.

“This aim was specifically flagged up in the most recent HMIE inspection report for the school where it was felt Johnstone High should try and improve its health and wellbeing objectives.

“Johnstone High is a very good school and that report showed that in many ways, but like all schools it has challenges and I think as councillors we need to support, not undermine, the school community.”