Clackmannanshire Council took the decision at its meeting on 30 June to build a new school at Redwell for the pupils of St John's and Claremont Primary schools.

The plan follows extensive consultation with parents, pupils, staff and the wider community and is the option favoured by the most respondents.

The decision will see £8.7 million invested in the new building, of which over £4 million will come from the Scottish Futures Trust. The state of the art building will be fully equipped and designed to meet pupils' needs and to help staff implement Curriculum for Excellence. Facilities will include a music room, gym, library, full sized sports pitches and up to date technology. Access for disabled users will be improved.

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Councillor George Matchett, portfolio holder for inclusion, said: "This is fantastic news for Alloa West as it means we will be able to provide the best learning environment for the maximum number of pupils. The current St John's building is really not suitable any more and the option of merging the two schools means that we will be able to offer better facilities to the pupils at Claremont as well.

"The teaching and ethos at the two schools currently is first class and the enthusiasm of the staff for the new building shines through. I'm sure the new school will retain this positive and friendly atmosphere when the pupils and staff get the modern, accessible and attractive building they deserve."

(GK)