Update on Maddiston Primary School Reinstatement Project
The reopening of Maddiston Primary School has been delayed after further investigations uncovered additional defects and compliance issues within the building. These were identified over the last few months when more extensive strip-out work took place.
As a result, the school is now expected to reopen by August 2028 rather than the previously anticipated date of August 2027.
Since the school was vacated in February 2025, extensive surveys, structural investigations and design works have been carried out to assess the condition of the building and develop a programme of reinstatement works.
Following publication of the independent Root Cause Analysis report in May, the project moved into a more intrusive phase of investigations and enabling works commenced. This involved removing internal walls and opening up previously inaccessible parts of the building so its condition could be fully assessed.
Only after this work began was it possible to identify the full extent of the defects and further works required to meet current regulations.
Due to the additional works now required, the construction programme has been reviewed.
Paul Kettrick, Head of Investment, Assets and Climate, said:
We know many families will be frustrated and disappointed that the reopening date has moved back. We share that disappointment and fully appreciate the impact this will have on pupils, parents, carers and staff, who have shown great patience throughout this process.
"Once the additional defects and works to meet current regulations were identified, it was clear they had to be addressed before the school could safely re-open. While this means more time is needed, it is the right thing to do. Completing this work now will ensure pupils and staff return to a building that is safe, fully compliant and built to last.
“Our focus remains on delivering the right long-term outcome for the school community and we will continue to keep families informed as the project progresses.
Jon Reid, Director of Education said:
The Maddiston school community has shown considerable resilience throughout this period, and we are grateful to pupils, families and staff for their continued support and flexibility.
“We are confident that the temporary arrangements at Maddiston and across our school estate have provided, and continue to provide, positive outcomes for children and young people, maintaining a high-quality educational experience since the start of the decant.
"We have written directly to those affected and will continue to work closely with school leaders, staff and partner establishments to minimise disruption while the reinstatement programme progresses. Planning for the 2027/28 school year is already underway, with final arrangements to be confirmed through the normal planning process in June 2027.