Local Place Plan - Education
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Balerno High School
Balerno High School opened in 1984 and has a current operating capacity of 850-900 students. In 2018 City of Edinburgh Council proposed Balerno High School be rebuilt, on its existing site, with a capacity of 1200 pupils [1]. That proposal was however replaced in 2022 with proposals for refurbishment. Balerno High School roll projection is 892 for 2026 against a planned capacity of 924, with a roll projection of 900 in 2034; so far so good. Further projections will of course depend on population expansion statistics, but it would seem unlikely that High School capacity of 850 will be sufficient after 2035 or thereabouts. This proposal responds to the strong demand for either a rebuild or refurbishment. Respondents had the view that the school is outdated, worn out, and “falling apart” and the proposal is a feasibility study to compare between a full rebuild and a deep retrofit/ modernisation. It also tries to address the improvement of the community services offered by the school. 
Deanpark Primary School
Dean Park Primary School, the main feeder primary for BHS, has a current capacity of 546 spread over 19 classes. Student projections suggest that its 546 capacity will be inadequate by 2028 with projections indicating numbers of 548 in 2028 to 678 in 2034 This proposal focuses on improving the experience and safety of pupils, parents, and staff at Dean Park Primary School. It addresses significant concerns around unsafe and congested parking during drop-off and pick-up times, as well as longer-term pressures from a growing population and outdated school infrastructure. The proposal combines traffic management solutions with longer-term considerations such as additional school provision and expanded play spaces. |
