Midlothian Council has said a number of communities are to benefit from a new school with enhanced community facilities.

The announcement comes after elected members agreed to a £33m plus project which will see Mayfield, Gorebridge, Newtongrange, Moorfoot and other areas served by Newbattle Community benefit.

The changes will now see a brand new "community hub" built at a new site to replace the old school.

In addition to the above, councillors rejected recommendations to close Newbattle Swimming Pool, Mayfield Leisure Centre and switch Mayfield Library to being an outreach centre concentrating on literacy for younger children.


Councillor Bob Constable, Leader at Midlothian Council, said: "As we've said from the very start, we are a listening administration and the messages from people have been received loud and clear.

"The hub offers a fantastic facility for Midlothian and by building more than just a school, we're offering an excellent environment for both young people and others in our communities to flourish in. As a result, we're expecting to see young people at the school do better and our communities in general to benefit.

"It's clear that people value their local facilities, and that's why we're rejected closure recommendations today."

Council members heard a report which summarised recommendations from officials, together with a full analysis of a three month consultation process involving more than 50 separate meetings with pupils, pupils from feeder primaries, parents, voluntary organisations and other people from within the catchment area.

Of the £33.6m total cost, the Council is responsible for providing £12m with the rest coming through the Scottish Government.

(JP/CD)