Proposals will move forward later this year inviting councillors to agree to a statutory consultation on the potential closure of Furnace Primary School.
An options appraisal carried out in line with the preliminary requirements of the Schools (Consultation) (Scotland) Act 2010 concluded that closure of the school, alongside a proposed realignment of its catchment area to Inveraray Primary School, is the most reasonable option to address the underlying issues being faced by the school.
The findings will now inform the development of a draft proposal, which is expected to be presented to elected members in December 2026 for a decision.
If councillors agree to adopt the draft proposal in December, this will trigger a formal statutory consultation process under the 2010 Act. This would provide parents, pupils, staff and the wider community with an opportunity to give their views before any final decision is taken.
Councillor Kieron Green, Policy Lead for Education, said:
“This is an important and sensitive issue for the Furnace community. At this stage, no final decision has been made. We thank everyone who has given feedback to date.
Councillors will consider a draft proposal later this year, and if approved, a full statutory consultation will follow. This will ensure that the voices of pupils, families and the wider community are properly heard and considered before any final decision is reached. ”
