Hermitage Primary School pupils to return to classroom as planned following annexe fire

Pupils at a Helensburgh primary school will be able to return to the classroom on Tuesday as planned, council chiefs have confirmed.

Hermitage Primary School’s disused former annexe was destroyed by a fire earlier this week, which is being investigated by police.

Argyll and Bute Council education officer Wendy Brownlie has said that the authority is “saddened” by the events at the historic building.

But young people will be able to return to the East Argyle Street school on Tuesday April 19 after the Easter holidays as per the council schedule, albeit with some changes to access routes.

Parents have also been asked to avoid bringing vehicles to school to drop off or collect pupils if at all possible.

Ms Brownlie said in an update to parents on the council website: “We are pleased to confirm that Hermitage Primary School staff and pupils will be able to return to Hermitage Primary, as planned, on April 19.

“The Grant Street gate will remain shut and the area of playground closest to the annexe will also be fenced off to allow the already planned roof works to be completed.

“Heavy vehicles will be operating in the area to remove debris and we ask that you avoid bringing a vehicle to school.

“However, if you need to bring a vehicle for drop off and pick up please park extremely carefully and avoid Grant Street. Until further notice all pupils should use the front gate on East Argyle Street for both drop off and collection. This includes bicycles and scooters.”

Ms Brownlie also said: “Our education, property, building standards and health and safety services are all involved in assessing and progressing action needed now that the fire is out.

“This has included arranging for demolition of the annexe, which began on Tuesday evening. By Tuesday, April 19, the demolition will be complete and the process of sorting and removing debris will be underway.

“The demolition site has been fenced off and police and private security are watching the area. Please ensure you and your family stay safe by staying away from the site.

“I would like to thank your head teacher Elspeth Davis and your janitor team for their ongoing support in ensuring staff and pupils are able to make a safe return to the building.”