THE development of a new school in the north of Glasgow was approved unanimously by councillors across the board.

Plans to build the primary in Maryhill received cross party support as it was passed at the council’s executive committee.

The development was put in place to accommodate the projected increase in the number of children of school age expected to be living in the area in the coming years.

Subjected to several public consultations last year a review of the catchment areas of eight nearby primaries was also approved

Bailie Liz Cameron, Executive Member for Children, Young People & Lifelong Learning said: “The new school development is a very much needed asset for the north of Glasgow and it’s terrific that the plans brought forward to this committee are wholly supported by all parties.”

She added: “It’s wonderful to be witnessing the resurgence and regeneration of Maryhill and as a result the need for additional primary school places.

“We are delighted to be able to put forward our proposal to build a new primary school with a nursery and community sports facilities that will be a great asset to the local community at the top of Queen Margaret Drive following the extensive consultation and engagement process.”

John Letford, a councillor for the Maryhill area, said the approval for this plan was a great decision for the people.

Before approval yesterday the plans were scrutinised by hundreds of people living in the area last year.

Among the various consultation events were two formal consultation meetings: 20 people attended at Maryhill Burgh Hall while just one person attended at Benview Campus.

Plans were also discussed with parent groups, pupil groups, area partnerships and staff groups while consultation events were held and documents handed out.

Of 40 responses to the proposal, 26 were for it, nine were against and five said they were unclear.

Glasgow City Council have previously acknowledged there would have been a shortage of spaces in Maryhill schools if rolls continued to rise.

Projections show that around 800 more children will be living in the north west of the city by 2020.