A STEVENSTON primary school is now set for bigger playground after the kids recent return from lockdown – despite objections from community councillors.

An application for Ardeer Primary school to extend the grounds onto open space for more sports and outdoor learning was approved by councillors last week [Wednesday May 19] subject to conditions.

The grounds would be extended onto the adjoining unused land – which would be used for pupils to play sports on. There would also be land used for allotments and the placement of an outdoor classroom.

The plans received two objections from neighbours – with one from the town’s community council.

Meeting papers state the deputy head has since been in touch with objectors – confirming the fence would not impinge on the school’s drop off area and at 1.4m it would not impact on residents. The cabin would be on existing school grounds and would not obstruct view.s

Stevenston Community Council objected stating plans would “impact on the future use of the site”.

They said: “Part of the proposed area used to be a football pitch. SCC would wish to see the current pitch, on the east side of Shore Road returned to this area. The area incorporated into the school should be located further to the west, closer to the burn, to allow this area to be retained as a potential pitch. A suggested alternative area is submitted.”

North Ayrshire Council responded stating: “It is noted a football pitch had been laid out in this area but is not currently in use. However, it is also noted that the pitches at the Beach Park have been moved to the east side of Shore Road and There would be no loss of a sports pitch through this application.

“NAC Education held a meeting with SCC following receipt of this objection. The proposed alternative site was considered but has been rejected.

“The area, subject of this application, will allow the school to run various sports, including provision of a football pitch of the same dimensions as had previously been on the west side of Clark Crescent. NAC Education met further with SCC.

Depute head teacher Gillian Seaman previously told the Herald said: “Our playground is concrete and quite small so the provisional plan is to extend the outdoor area for a sports field and some community allotments as well.

“We have a rough idea at the moment but we’re going to firm up plans more towards the end of June – we’re thinking of an outdoor classroom as well so it’s very exciting.”