A NEW era has started in Kilbirnie after a new primary school building opened for the first time.

Pupils of Moorpark were able to enter the new facility for the first time on Wednesday, October 30, to commence the new chapter for the Kilbirnie school.

Staff had been able to head into the school two days prior to prepare for the move from their former building which sits adjacent.

It was a landmark moment for all involved in the project which has been beset by a number of delays since construction started back in September 2021.

The final brick was initially laid in April 2023, when council officials said it would open in September that year.

But in September, the local authority said it was "unable to accept handover of the building from the contractor due to a number of outstanding defects".

The opening was then pushed back to the start of this school year, before another short delay came as a result of construction issues that were still to be completed to get the building ready for handover.

The school has 12 primary classes and a 16-place early years provision and its spacious hall, breakout areas and an all-weather pitch offer a fantastic and welcoming new learning environment.

Constructed by Clark Contracts, the building also has sustainability and the environment at its heart.

Key features in the new build include solar panels to provide free, renewable electricity for the school.

There have also been improvements to local pedestrian and cycle pathways, as well as the provision of new cycle and scooter storage facilities at the school for all pupils, staff and visitors to use.

(Image: Submitted)

Councillor Shaun Macaulay, cabinet member for education, said: “We are delighted to be welcoming pupils and staff to their new school and appreciate their patience as it has taken slightly longer to construct than was anticipated.

“We are sure it will be a brilliant asset for the staff, young people, their families and community for years to come.

“It is very exciting for the pupils and we are sure they will make amazing memories here. Not only will it be a fantastic learning environment but the building will also be energy efficient and it has been developed with sustainability at its core.”

Head Teacher Elaine Mann added: “This is a day we have looked forward to for many months and we are thrilled to finally be here.

"A massive thanks goes to all the staff and the wider community for their unstinting support and patience in recent months.

“We very much look forward to what the future brings and we couldn’t be happier or prouder of our wonderful new school.”