Lack of funding for Dumfries Academy refurbishment labelled ‘extremely disappointing’
New options are now being explored to take the project forward
Last updated 10th Nov 2023
The Leader of Dumfries & Galloway Council is expressing disappointment, following news that a funding bid, which would help enhance Dumfries Academy, has been unsuccessful.
A bid was put in with the Scottish Government's Learning Estate Investment Programme (LEIP) 3 last October which, if approved, would have allowed subsequent bidding for revenue funding, which would help manage the regions school estate.
It’s understood the capital would have granted the chance to invest in the aging Dumfries Academy building, and allow for Loreburn Primary School to be moved into the same building.
Next steps now need to be considered
The Council say they’re now exploring alternative options to improve their property portfolio, to provide the best modern learning environments for young people across the region.
Speaking on the unsuccessful funding bid, Dumfries and Galloway Council Leader Councillor Gail MacGregor said:
“In the wake of this disappointing news, we will now take time to consider what our options are in relation to this redevelopment work, and how it’ll affect the communities, both at local and school level.
“We have a large school estate here in Dumfries and Galloway, and the funding through LEIP 3 would have allowed us to rationalise this estate ever so slightly, and at the same time spend vital capital on an aging property.
“Our application was submitted in October last year, so to wait a full calendar year to be told “no” is extremely disappointing for all concerned.
“I’m sure the matter will be discussed at a future meeting of the Council’s Education and Learning Committee.”
In response, a Scottish Government spokesperson said:
“This third phase supports a priority project in those local authorities who have not thus far benefitted from LEIP and, therefore, treats all councils fairly and equitably.
“Dumfries and Galloway Council received financial support from Phase 2 of LEIP to support the construction of a new Dumfries High School.
“The proportion of schools in “good” or “satisfactory” condition in Scotland has increased from 61% in April 2007 to 90.7% in April 2023, and LEIP investment will build on this progress.”