School in expansion

Jul 23 2009 by Marjorie Kerr, West Lothian Courier

WORK has started on a massive redevelopment of a West Lothian school.

Pinewood School in Blackburn – a special school for pupils aged between five and 18 years – is being given a £1.8 million facelift.

The school serves the whole of West Lothian and caters for young people who have a wide range of additional support needs, including autism.

The improvements include six new classrooms, improvements to the physical education and IT communications facilities and installation of a new central heating system.

It is expected that work will be completed by next summer.

The project is being managed by the council's Property Services with construction work awarded to Maxi Construction.

Executive councillor for education, Andrew Miller, said he was pleased the work is going ahead.

He said: “I welcome the start of work at Pinewood, both the parents and staff have great commitment to the school.

“Last year the Parents and Staff Teachers Association (PASTA) worked tirelessly to raise £65,000 to improve the playground.

“They were also successful in winning a £50,000 grant for their ambitious project from a Big Lottery Fund competition.

“I am delighted the council is now matching this commitment and enthusiasm with this £1.8 million investment.

“When it is completed the new classrooms and upgraded facilities will provide a quality learning environment, which will improve the learning experience for everyone at the school.”