Finding a contractor to replace Caledonia Primary’s wall is a council priority, but the whereabouts of missing sandstone from the wall remains a mystery.

The wall at the Saltcoats school was recently demolished in a controversial bid to save money. Temporary Heras fencing was erected in its place until the construction of a permanent fence. However, the contractor went into liquidation.

At last week’s meeting of North Ayrshire Council, Councillor Jean McClung asked Cabinet Member for PlaceCouncillor Jim Montgomerie for an update regarding the work to erect a permanent fence.

She also said that sandstone, which had been promised to the Three Towns Growers for their rockeries following the demolition, had disappeared.

Councillor McClung said: “Now I am left in the position that I have to break a promise because I didn’t get it [the stone]. Fortunately, since then, two separate constituents have contacted me to offer their own sandstone for the growers which shows that community spirit’s alive and well in Saltcoats which is good but I wonder what has happened to that original sandstone? Where is it now?”

Councillor Montgomerie replied that he did not know, but vowed to “get an answer”.

He revealed a new tender was issued to complete the fence, adding: “This tender closes on 19 September, after which the returns will be evaluated in liaison with Corporate Procurement as a matter of priority.

“Temporary Heras fencing has been put in place between the playground and work area to ensure the safety of pupils while the work is being carried out. Weekly inspections of the Heras fencing are being undertaken by PMI officers.”

He added: “I think what we need to remember here is the council deemed the wall unsafe and the priority is the safety of the children.”