Mid-Scotland and Fife MSP, Murdo Fraser, alongside Highland Ward Councillor, John Duff, have called for people in the local area to get involved in a public meeting over the future of Pitlochry High School. Five options are currently being considered for its future. The Conservative-led Perth and Kinross Council have also just approved plans for a brand new £14m primary school in North Perth.
The first public consultation session on Pitlochry High School will take place on Saturday at Pitlochry Town Hall between 9.30am and 1.30pm and comments can be made at the meeting, in writing or online.
Commenting, Murdo Fraser MSP said:
“The Scottish Conservative-led Administration have demonstrated this week that they are committed to investing in young people across Perth and Kinross with their decision to spend £14 million on a new school in North Perth.
“Saturday sees the start of the public meetings in Pitlochry and I would encourage members of the community to get involved in the process and help Perth and Kinross Council shape the future of secondary education in Pitlochry.
“There are a range of options being put forward for discussion and I would encourage the community to look at all the positive ideas.
“It is disappointing that we have seen so much scaremongering around the future of Pitlochry High School for party political purposes from local SNP politicians. They seem to have forgotten that we are only having this estates review because it was initiated by the former SNP administration on the Council.
“The only people talking up a closure option for the High School are the SNP. They did so during the recent Highland Ward Council By-Election, when they were roundly beaten, and they are still at it.
“I want to see a better future for secondary schooling in Pitlochry, and I know that view is shared by other local Conservative representatives.
“Everything from investment in the building, to introducing S5 and S6 classes at the school, through to looking at increasing use of technology to enable young people to access the widest range of opportunities possible, is on the table.
“Comments can be made at the meeting, or in writing or online, and I welcome the Council responding to requests for additional opportunities for the public to meet with officers and to discuss all the possible options.”
Highland Ward Councillor John Duff said:
"The Scottish Conservatives on Perth and Kinross Council have always supported a positive outcome for Pitlochry High School.
“I look forward to an outcome that provides much needed investment in the building, technology and the educational opportunities for all pupils, including 5th and 6th year at this excellent school".