Dreghorn school drains cause concern

Nov 2 2012 by Ross Dunn, Irvine Herald

Massive storm drains outside Dreghorn’s brand new primary school has raised fears over safety.

The £9 million state-of-the-art school officially opened on Thursday, October 25, but the gigantic drainage systems at the bottom of two ditches have given residents and parents concerns about the safety of the new set-up.

One concerned resident commented: “The fence surrounding the area doesn’t look very high, I don’t think it could stop a child jumping over - or anyone else for that matter.”

“If someone gets over the fence and that’s filled up with water, it could be very dangerous.”

Dreghorn pupils celebrated the opening of the school by walking from the old school to the new site last week.

Concern has also been raised over the litter already gathering at the mouth of the drain.

“The school has barely been open for a week and it’s already filled with plastic bottles and other bits of rubbish too - what will it be like in a few years down the line?”

“Not to mention, that it’s supposed to be a brand new school and you have that horrible eyesore greeting you,” the resident added.

A spokesperson for North Ayrshire Council said: “The two drains are in place to deal with water run-off from hard surfaces, such as the playground and car park.

“Surface water is diverted through the retention basins during periods of heavy rain in order to prevent flooding.

“Long grasses have been planted around the basins, which will also be supplemented with shrubs and bushes.

“The areas will be monitored by the school. Any leaves, debris or rubbish that collects in the drains will be removed as part of the routine cleaning of the school’s grounds.”