The controversial Portobello Park school in Edinburgh looks set to become a reality, after a report is submitted to the council in favour of the development.

The report has concluded it would be quicker, more affordable and ultimately mean building a better school.

A debate has been generated over the past few months following the City of Edinburgh Council’s plans to construct a new school on common good land at Portobello Park.

Local community organisation Portobello Park Action Group (PPAG) has opposed the plans. The group launched a legal challenge and won their appeal in September.

But councillors voted last month to pursue the Scottish Government to gain permission under special circumstances.

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Council Leader, Andrew Burns and Councillor Paul Godzik, Education Convener, met with Derek Mackay, Minister for Local Government and Planning this week to discuss the issue.

The meeting agreed a Private Bill, presented to Parliament is a positive way forward.

Councillor Paul Godzik said: "Portobello Park is the best option, bar none, and we will be working with the community in the coming months to explain the options and seek their views. We firmly believe that Portobello Park has the support of the vast majority of people in the area."

Derek Mackay, MSP said, "It is clear that a new school for the Portobello community needs to be built urgently. We have had a very constructive first meeting with the Council and we will continue to work with colleagues there in case there is appropriate help we can offer. "

The new report discusses the issues surrounding the development, such as the land's classification as inalienable common good.

A review and legal advice has concluded any attempt to question the status that the land is inalienable common good would most likely be pointless and result in no change in the classification.

The report also recommends a bid is placed for the former Scottish Power site at Baileyfield which would act as one of the fall-back options.

A full statutory consultation will be carried out next year.

(IT)