Plans to build a replacement for Portobello High School in Edinburgh is to go before MSPs later today (9 January).

The controversial proposals have been referred to the Scottish Parliament because the land in question is part of a public park.

The Parliament will be asked to support a private bill which will allow the construction of the facility to go ahead.

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A public consultation, which closed last January, saw more than 12,000 take part. As the time, the local authority said the response was "tremendous". Many locals voiced their opposition to the plans though, as they said it would result in a loss of green space in the city.

In September 2012, campaigners won a legal battle to block plans to build the school in Portobello Park. If this private bill is approved, the project would be allowed to go ahead.

The replacement high school, valued at £41m, was first suggested 10 years ago.

(JP)