THE catchment area for a new school in Bishopton has been given the thumbs up by councillors, writes Jack Thomson.
Following a consultation reviewing the catchment areas of the current primary school and a new build within Dargavel Village scheduled for 2021, officers requested approval for their drawings.
Plans had been put together creating a natural geographic boundary line between the two schools by the railway line adjacent to the Dargavel development.
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Speaking at the Education and Children’s Services Policy Board on Thursday – where the blueprint was approved – Bishopton Councillor Natalie Don said: “The results are clear.
“People are supportive of the changes and we can all just be happy that this is progressing to the next stage.”
Councillor Jim Paterson, board convener, responded: “There’s an acceptance that this is the best and only way to redo this catchment area.”
A report, which was presented at the board, said support had been shown for the proposal.
It said: “The outcome of this consultation demonstrates support for the proposal and the Education and Children’s Services Policy Board is therefore asked to approve the recommendation to alter the catchment areas affecting Bishopton Primary School and a new primary school to be built at Dargavel Village to create a natural geographical boundary, which will allow all non-denominational pupils the opportunity to attend a local non-denominational school in Dargavel Village.”
The changes will be implemented and take effect following construction of the new school.
Children who are already attending Bishopton Primary School at that point but live at an affected address will not be asked to move.
The report also said: “Siblings of those pupils attending Bishopton Primary School would be entitled to attend the school with their sibling as long as their sibling is registered in the school when they enrol.”
Many of the consultation comments were positive, with one saying: “The catchment suggested is the most sensible way to split.”
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Another said: “Logical and sensible proposal of position of new catchment boundary lines.”
An Education Scotland response said: “Overall, Renfrewshire Council’s proposal to review the catchment area of Bishopton Primary School and a new primary school to be built at Dargavel Village offers potential educational benefit by providing a newly built school in Dargavel Village, whilst also addressing capacity issues at Bishopton Primary School.
“The proposed boundary between the two catchment areas is clear, has the support of most stakeholders and is likely to provide for safe walking routes to school.”
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