POLITICIANS from across the political spectrum reacted to the news that a new multi-purpose campus incorporating a new Ardrossan Academy could be built at the derelict site on Ardrossan’s North Shore.

Cllr John Bell, Labour’s Cabinet member for Education and Youth Employment, spoke proudly of the council’s plans but both the SNP and Conservatives highlighted issues surrounding safety, moving current amenities and transport.

Cllr Bell said: “These plans are hugely ambitious and exciting but it’s important to stress that these are outline proposals. That’s all they are at this stage and we are now looking forward to meeting with the community and stakeholders to discuss them in greater detail.

“This is much, much more than just a new school. This is a new direction and we’re excited about the path we are taking.

“Ardrossan is one of the most deprived areas in Scotland. That’s so disappointing but we are seeing it as an opportunity to spark real change and to make a difference. A like-for-like replacement for Ardrossan Academy would be great but we have to be bold if we want to make a difference and improve the chances for our young people. By creating opportunities for them we can realise the potential of the area.”

Tony Gurney, who is one of two SNP councillors representing the Ardrossan and Arran ward on the council, welcomed the plans but said there are ‘significant obstacles’ to the development.

Cllr Gurney said: “I am delighted that these plans have finally become public knowledge and give them a cautious welcome. It is unfortunate that Labour have once again chosen to develop proposals in secret without consulting local people or elected members, particularly as they have no local representation to provide crucial information.

“Taken in the round these proposals, developed after my motion to council to prioritise a new Ardrossan Academy and only deliverable with SNP Government support, present an opportunity for a substantial redevelopment for Ardrossan. The development has the opportunity to deliver new jobs and much needed facilities, as well as completely redeveloping a site that is a blight on the town.

“There are, however, significant obstacles that require addressing. First and foremost is the safety of our children. This development can only go ahead if the site is properly cleaned. Ironically this type of comprehensive approach is one of the few ways that we can afford to do this.

“Transport facilities would also be crucial. Locals will be aware of the bottlenecks on Montgomerie Street and North Crescent which are often reduced to one way roads. Significant investment would be required to ensure that a development on this scale includes the requisite infrastructure support.”

Cllr Timothy Billings, Conservative Councillor for Ardrossan and Arran admitted there are downsides and told the Herald: “Getting a new school for Ardrossan is a priority. These proposals have the potential to achieve this sooner and bring added benefits to Ardrossan. But, there are downsides. When deciding on the way forward, the council must really listen to what the people of the Three Towns have to say; balancing the pros and cons.

“We all recognise that money is tight, and this development takes advantage of additional Scottish Government money. If the council goes forward with these proposals, the decision must be the right one for the area, and not just because there was money available.”

Cllr Bell hopes that this will realise true change for the town of Ardrossan and hoped the plans would be supported, he added: “We hope to provide opportunities for every type of young person. From those who excel academically to those whose strengths lie in vocational areas.

“Ardrossan is an area that has suffered for a number of years. We need to change that.

“We will consult thoroughly throughout and look forward to developing the plans for this new facility.”

Tony Gurney added that caution should be taken and said: “Whilst an investment in both primary and early years provision is to be welcomed we should not lose sight of the changes this would entail at Winton Primary. The school is tremendously well run with a superb ethic and care would need to be taken that that would transfer to any new facility.

“Our experiences in Largs and the Garnock Valley suggest that can be managed but I would personally be sad to see the closure of a school that has been a fixture in the town for 120 years and, on a personal note, was attended by my own children.

“It is beyond discussion that we need a new Ardrossan Academy but your readers will remember that previous attempts to provide a new school have hit various problems. I look forward to finding out more detail regarding these proposals and, in particular, the solution to the potential problems.”