Moray Council has approved plans to create a new primary school in Elgin.

The new Linkwood Primary School will be developed close to the new Moray Sports Centre which is currently under construction.

With floor space of around 2,780 square metres, the facility will accommodate up to 476 pupils. including ASN provision for up to 12 pupils, while space will be developed for 40 nursery pupils and 53 staff between the school and nursery. In addition, parking will be provided for 40 cars, including disabled spaces, as well as 33 cycle spaces and 10 scooter spaces to encourage active travel to school.

Other features will include an external roof terrace and plant deck area and outside play areas will include a secure area for ASN pupils. A sandpit and multi-use games area (MUGA) as well as an allotment and outdoor classroom will also be developed.

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A wetland habitat area featuring aquatic and wetland meadow planting will include the sustainable drainage system, and there is the potential to include solar panels on the roof of the building.

In their report to Moray Council's Planning & Regulatory Services Committee, planners commented: "Initially, the school development will appear isolated and detached from other development within Elgin South but, over time, further development within the Elgin South area… will help to integrate and provide a context and setting for this school which, along with other community facilities, will provide a focus for development within a new village to be formed at the centre of Elgin South."

Cllr David Bremner said: "The south of Elgin will undergo a radical transformation in the coming years with the building of some 870 homes, shops and food outlets, and two primary schools.

"By approving this latest planning application, which gives the green light for the building of the new Linkwood Primary, we're preparing for this growth and ensuring that the children who live here will have access to modern and spacious learning environments."

(LM/MH)