New Boroughmuir High School plans unveiled in Edinburgh

Work is expected to start on the new Boroughmuir High School in summer 2014 with completion due for summer 2016

The first images of plans for the new Boroughmuir High School in Edinburgh have been unveiled.

Plans for the canal-side site in Fountainbridge have been drawn up by Allan Murray Architects.

The new building will house up to 1,165 pupils, and will replace the school's current building which sits less than 500 metres away.

The school site is marked by the Union Canal to the south, Dundee Street to the north, and Viewforth to the east.

The student residencies being built off Gibson Terrace for Napier University mark the western edge of the site.

The plans show teaching areas arranged around a multi-functional "heart", traditional classrooms offering easy access to break out areas and enhanced facilities for physical activity and external learning, including a roof-top multi-use games area.

There will also be a new public park, along the canal's north bank, next to the new school building.

The atrium will be a social space within the new school building

Subject to consultation, and planning and budget consent, work is expected to start on the new school in summer 2014 with completion due for summer 2016.

Paul Godzik, Edinburgh City Council's education convener, said: "Pupils, parents and teachers have been waiting a long time for a new school, so I'm delighted that we are able to show them plans that bring a vision for the new school to life. I very much look forward to hearing their views.

"Boroughmuir has a first-class academic track record, and the focus is now firmly on delivering a new school that provides an equally impressive learning environment."

David Dempster, Boroughmuir High School's head teacher, said: "I have been lucky enough to get a preview of the building and now have a real feel for what lies in store in 2016.

"The new Boroughmuir High School looks to be shaping up to all we dreamed of and more.

"Outline designs show a school which is innovative, inspiring and definitely fitting to be our new school.

"The building nestles in a beautiful setting, adjacent to the canal-side park with a definite and impressive entrance plaza to welcome visitors."

Architect Allan Murray said: "This design for Boroughmuir High School retains some of the best aspects of the current school, and seeks to create a welcoming environment with dramatic and inspirational spaces for learning both inside and outside the building."