THE opening of a new school in Irvine has been delayed - though only by a matter of days.

It comes after North Ayrshire Council sent out a letter addressed to parents and carers of children due to start at Montgomerie Park Primary School in August.

This detailed that the Scottish Government had approved an "exception closure" on what was due to the be the first two days of the new term, Tuesday August 20 and Wednesday August 21.

The letter, sent by head of service for education Andrew McClelland, said: "These two days will be used for staff orientation and training, followed by classroom set up in preparation for the children to attend school to start the new session on Thursday, August 22.

"Activities will be made available, via the online transition hub, for children to complete at home.

"Those children entitled to free school meals can collect a packed lunch from Lawthorn Primary School. Collection times will also be available via the online transition hub nearer the time.

"I apologise for any inconvenience caused to the school community, however, this time is essential in ensuring the success of commencing the new school session in our new building."

The new £24 million school will be opening for the first time in August, accommodating up to 342 pupils, plus an early learning and childcare facility with 32 places for those aged three-five and 15 places for two-year-olds.

Construction of the facility was initially brought forward in 2019, and due to commence in 2020-21, two years earlier than first planned.

However, the Covid pandemic delayed this move with opening set back to this year, when construction got underway.