A warning has been issued regarding the potential repercussions if Shetland councillors decide against the construction of a new school in Brae. Councillor Stephen Leask, who represents Lerwick North and Bressay, described such a U-turn as a “complete embarrassment” that would incur significant costs for the council. Preparatory work is currently underway as the project moves toward a full business case, which is expected to be presented for approval in October 2024.
In January 2024, councillors approved the progression of the Brae school project to the full business case stage, with an estimated cost of £4.5 million to reach this point. Should all necessary approvals be granted, construction is anticipated to begin in November 2026, with the new school potentially welcoming students in August 2028. The demolition of the existing school, currently the only secondary institution in the North Mainland, is slated for completion in 2029. The overall estimated budget for the new school stands at £42.5 million, which includes the preliminary costs.
At a recent council meeting, development committee chairman Dennis Leask expressed skepticism regarding the projected timeline, calling it “optimistic.” He raised concerns about the feasibility of starting construction just a month after the full business case is expected to be approved. Leask also questioned whether the Shetland Islands Council (SIC) would bear costs incurred before this approval.
In response, SIC chief executive Maggie Sandison affirmed that the decision to move to the full business case has already been made, which includes incurring certain costs. She clarified that while the council will face expenses related to the full business case, the final decision on proceeding with the construction project will still rest with councillors in October 2026.
Leask cautioned against reversing the decision, emphasizing that doing so would not only lead to financial implications but also damage the council’s reputation. He urged those with doubts about the project to voice their concerns openly. “If we ever did a U-turn on any decision that we’ve made in the past, it’d be at considerable cost to the council,” he stated, highlighting the importance of securing funding from the Scottish Government to ensure the school’s construction proceeds.
Following the meeting, SIC leader Emma Macdonald, whose Shetland North ward includes Brae, reiterated her support for the new school and the necessity for investment in local educational infrastructure. She assured that councillors will receive comprehensive information to aid their decision-making on the full business case. “The Brae school serves a wide catchment area and is important to the future of many families,” Macdonald noted, expressing hope that a solid business case will garner council-wide support.
Earlier this year, Robertson Construction Group was designated as the preferred main contractor for the project. Initial designs have been made public, and various consultation events have already taken place. The proposed location for the new school is the site of the existing grass pitch, which is planned for demolition, with intentions to reinstate a pitch in the area following the construction of the new facility.
