Golf school is right on course

As well as being located next to Portobello Golf Course, the school will also feature two all-weather pitches and a 25-metre swimming pool for use by pupils and the local community.

A new report reveals that a pre-planning consultation process will begin in May for members of the public to comment on the design for the new school in Portobello Park, which will replace the current ageing 1960s facilities on Duddingston Road.

The consultation is likely to prove controversial, particularly following the public outcry at the decision to build the new school in the park, which is designated as "common good" land.

However, it is also likely to get the thumbs-up from many, particularly those who have campaigned for years for a new school.

The possibility of creating a "centre for excellence" for golf at the school is also expected to attract widespread support.

The idea was mooted after the council ordered a report into the use of the current Portobello Park site, which revealed there were an increasing number of children in the area playing golf.

The report, which was produced by education director Gillian Tee and city development director Dave Anderson, states: "The proposed location of the school alongside the golf course offers a unique opportunity to capitalise on this proximity and create a centre of excellence for golf at the school.

"Possibilities for creating a golf academy are currently being explored; such a partnership approach may offer pupils an exceptional opportunity to develop their golfing skills whilst receiving a first-class education."

The report, released today, also reveals that the council is not planning to replace the open space taken up by the new school buildings as originally promised.

One option had been to turn the Duddingston Road site into open space after demolishing the old school but council chiefs say this would lose the authority 3.9 million through land sale, which is being ring-fenced "for future reinvestment into the children and families estate".

Council bosses instead propose spending 500,000 to improve the current facilities in the park.

City education leader Councillor Marilyne MacLaren described Portobello High as the "ideal school". She added: "We are working towards a 'village' model with a building designed to have minimal impact on its surroundings.

"We think this, alongside improvements that will open up access to existing park areas, will really enhance the area for local people."

"Edinburgh already plays a big part in Scotland's role as the home of golf but it would be great to see Portobello become a hotbed for new young golf talent."

Your Say: Is turning Portobello High into a golf academy a good idea?

Alexander Alexander, 82, retired, Calder Gardens: "It sounds good, but you can never trust the council – it says things but they don't always happen."

Kathleen Green, 67, retired, Newtongrange: "I think education needs to be the main focus, but if there are pupils interested in golf, this would be a good idea. None of the schools really seem to focus on sport."

Kate Brown, 30, nurse, Polwarth: "It's about time younger people were allowed the opportunity to invest in their sporting talents in Scotland. I suspect many families outwith Edinburgh would want their children at it."

If you have a view on this or any other subject, let us know.

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