Councillor Urges Support for New Brae School Amid Cost Concerns

Councillors in the Shetland Islands face critical decisions regarding the construction of a new school in Brae, with local officials warning that reversing course could lead to significant financial and reputational consequences. Stephen Leask, who represents Lerwick North and Bressay, expressed that abandoning the project at this stage would be a “complete embarrassment.” Preparatory work is currently underway, with a full business case set to be presented to the Shetland Islands Council (SIC) for approval in October 2026.

In January 2024, councillors voted to advance the project to a full business case, with estimated costs reaching £4.5 million for this initial phase. The overall budget for the new school is projected at £42.5 million, which includes the preliminary costs. The Scottish Government has pledged to fund half of the project, although this assistance will be disbursed over a period of 25 years.

At a recent council meeting, Dennis Leask, chairman of the development committee, raised questions about the ambitious timeline for the project. He noted that construction is expected to start in November 2026, just one month after the full business case could potentially be approved. Leask also inquired whether SIC would bear any financial liability for expenditures incurred before this approval, to which SIC Chief Executive Maggie Sandison clarified that progressing to the full business case stage inherently incurs costs. She reassured councillors that they will still have the option to decide on the project’s continuation in October 2026.

Stephen Leask cautioned against making a U-turn on the decision, highlighting the potential for “considerable costs” and “reputational damage” to the council. He urged anyone with reservations about the project to voice their concerns openly, asserting the importance of seeing the new school built and funded by the Scottish Government.

Following the meeting, SIC leader Emma Macdonald, whose Shetland North ward encompasses Brae, reiterated her support for the new school. She acknowledged the critical role the Brae school plays for families in the area and expressed optimism for a strong business case that would receive widespread backing from the council. Alongside Macdonald, fellow ward councillors Andrea Manson and Andrew Hall share the view that investment in the school estate is essential.

Earlier this year, Robertson Construction Group was named the preferred contractor for the project, and initial designs have been released. Public consultation events have already taken place to gather community input. Plans indicate that the new school could be constructed on the site of the existing grass pitch, with a proposal to demolish the outdated building. The area could be revitalized, with a new pitch reinstated after the old structures are removed.

As the project progresses towards its pivotal decision point, the council remains focused on ensuring that the new Brae school meets the needs of its community while managing financial implications responsibly.