PLANS to build a new Additional Support Needs School in North Ayrshire have received the overwhelming support from parents, carers and teachers.

At a meeting of North Ayrshire Council’s Cabinet, elected members will learn that 93 per cent of people who took part in the formal consultation process backed the proposals.

Education Scotland also supported the proposals stating: “North Ayrshire Council’s proposal has the potential to be of significant educational benefit.”

Councillors are now expected to agree to the recommendation that will see ASN provision across the area transformed over the next few years.

The new £25 million ASN school will be built adjacent to Auchenharvie Academy and will provide high-quality education and care for children and young people.

The school will provide flexible learning for young people with a range of additional support needs (ASN). This proposal will result in the closure and amalgamation of James McFarlane, Stanecastle, James Reid and Haysholm schools.

The new school is expected to open in 2020 and will feature a large hydrotherapy pool, gym facilities, soft play, playground equipment and outdoor learning spaces. The school will cater for around 180-200 pupils, however, the occupancy could vary depending on individual pupil’s specific needs.

As well as the development of the £25m school, the proposals will also see the creation of new early years provision at Annick Primary.

The planning of the early years’ facility – which is also expected to open in 2020 – would be programmed to ensure minimal impact on the operation of the school. It will accommodate places for 20 two-year-olds and 50 three to five-year-olds.

Councillor John Bell, Cabinet Member for Education and Youth Employment, said: “We are delighted that the council is moving forward with these hugely ambitious plans.

“We have had incredible support and backing from parents/carers throughout this process and they can be assured that they will continue to play a part as we move forward.

“The children and young people will be at the centre of the new school and all decisions will be based about what is best for them.

“We believe every child in North Ayrshire should have the best education available and that there should be no poverty of ambition, aspiration or opportunity. This new school will help us achieve that goal.”