Berwickshire school to cost £23.3m after victory for people power
A new Eyemouth Primary School will cost £23.3million after people power triumphed in the battle for its future.
Back in September, the wishes of the overwhelming majority of the school community won the day when Scottish Borders Council abandoned plans to relocate pupils into the town’s High School.
Instead it was agreed to build a new standalone primary school with early years and family centre provision on or aligned to the existing primary school site in Coldingham Road.
Councillors received an update on the progress of the plans at a meeting of full council on November 5.
The new primary school is designed for up to 420 pupils and provides 12 classrooms arranged across four learning zones.
A report to members stated: “The proposal comprises two separate single storey buildings on the vacant former High School land beside the existing school at Coldingham Road, adjoining Houndlaw Park and the wider parkland.
“The proposal places the Early Years and Family Centre towards Coldingham Road and the primary school behind it – with a shared entrance plaza, a new vehicle access, parking, drop off arrangements and servicing from Coldingham Road.
“Pedestrian access and connections to the wider parkland are integral to the site strategy.
“The main accommodation includes classroom cloak and nurture spaces, breakout and general purpose teaching spaces, a dining and assembly space, a separate gym hall, full production kitchen, pupil and staff toilets, administration, staff, meeting, support and storage accommodation, and secure outdoor learning and play areas.
“The Early Years and Family Centre provides early years play accommodation, cloakroom and storage, food preparation and toilet facilities, together with therapy, one to one, office, lounge and family support spaces.
“It has a separate entrance and secure external play and garden space, while remaining closely connected to the primary school.
“The existing school will remain in operation while the new facilities are constructed
“The cost plan estimates the total project cost at £23.3million excluding VAT, including approximately £1million for demolition of the existing buildings.
“This compares with estimates of £24.3million in May 2026 and £24.1million in September 2026, showing a continuing downward trend as the design has been refined.”