South Lanarkshire Council

The new school will be built on the site of the existing 1950s structure in the town's Rhyber Avenue.

This will be demolished before work starts during this year's summer break with primary pupils being decanted to Carluke whilst work takes place.

Nursery pupils will also benefit as their current base, which sits separately on the site, will be incorporated into the brand new building. During the build they will remain in a temporary building on nearby recreation ground in a bid to minimise disruption for the under 5s.

Following the decision by the council's Planning Committee to approve the proposals by Kier Scotland, detailed planning permission has now been granted for a new single storey structure which will include:

• Nine classrooms
• Nursery class
• Gym hall with stage, sound and lighting
• General purpose area
• ICT area
• Multi-purpose sports pitch - with community use outwith school hours

The school has been designed to maximise natural light with coloured glazing and south facing windows looking out onto the play area and adjacent lime tree woodland.

Extensive landscaping is also proposed featuring raised beds, an orchard, eco garden, external classrooms, wall seating and grass play mounds. The existing woodland will be also be kept and managed for recreation and learning activities.

Vehicle access will be from Rhyber Avenue with parking and bus drop off points.

Councillor Patrick Ross-Taylor, the depute chair of the Planning Committee, said: "This new school will offer the community a vibrant and dynamic environment in which our children can learn.

"The council's Primary Schools Modernisation programme has already transformed the lives of thousands of young people and I know that the Lanark primary school community is excited about what the future holds for both their primary and nursery pupils."