Ground inspections have commenced for the proposed new Brae High School in Shetland. Contractors began the inspection work earlier this week, marking a significant step forward in the development of the new educational facility. The Shetland Islands Council (SIC) approved an outline business case in January 2024, estimating the project cost at approximately £42.5 million, pending approval of a full business case by elected members.
Funding and Project Scope
The Scottish Government has pledged to provide half of the funding for the project, which will be distributed over a 25-year period. Plans indicate that the new school may be constructed on the site of the existing grass pitch, with intentions to demolish the current building once the new facility is ready.
A spokesperson for the SIC stated that the ongoing ground investigations aim to assess the conditions of the soil at the site. This information will be crucial for determining the appropriate foundations for the new school. The school announced on social media that to minimize disruptions, any movement around the site during the inspections will be restricted to times when students are in class. This policy means that there will be no activity in areas accessible to students during drop-off and pick-up times, as well as during social breaks.
Health and Safety Measures
The school emphasized that health and safety precautions will be a priority during the inspections. Specifically, a banksman will oversee the movement of equipment around the site to ensure safety protocols are maintained. Additionally, rotary rig holes will be drilled near the school building over the weekend to further the investigation.
Before any digging occurs near the secondary department of the school, contractors will verify that no preliminary structures are present. This step is essential to avoid disturbing any existing infrastructure. Recent projections suggest that the new Brae school could be ready for opening in August 2028. If all necessary approvals are granted, construction could begin in the second half of 2026.
As the project progresses, the SIC and school officials remain committed to keeping the community informed about developments and ensuring a smooth transition to the new facility. The establishment of a modern educational environment is anticipated to benefit students and the wider community in Brae for generations to come.
