A DECISION has been made to demolish part of Peebles High School after the recent blaze.

Emergency demolition work on parts of the building was due to begin this week to allow for further assessment of the building’s structural integrity and safety.

During initial assessments, the building was split into three areas, based on the damage caused.
Area one, which contains the Millennium Wing, science and drama classrooms, has very little damage. 
Area two, which houses the maths tower, additional needs and modern languages classrooms has significant smoke damage and some fire damage.
However, the third area, with the PE gym, art rooms and toilets has been the worst affected and will be demolished.

A Scottish Borders Council spokesperson was unable to confirm when rebuilding work will begin.
The recovery operation for belongings is still ongoing, with the majority of recovered items coming from area one. 
Parts of areas two and three are still inaccessible and the council will inform parents when more items have been found.

As students come to the end of their first week in their alternative classrooms, the local authority is looking at learning options for after the Christmas break – and for the long term in 2020.

With prelim exams to take into consideration, as well as exams after the Easter break, learning arrangements based at Peebles High will be looked in to as an option for students.

Although parts of the school have been opened for the return of belongings and pieces of work, people are reminded to stay away from the site for their own safety.

Chief executive of Scottish Borders Council, Tracey Logan said: “Safety remains our main priority at the moment at Peebles High.
“The site is currently hazardous and unsafe, which is why it is vital that the public stay away. 
“We are making progress with our evaluation of the site, but this is a complex and difficult recovery project.
“This is an extremely challenging time and we appreciate the continued understanding and support of the community.”

Chief Inspector, Stuart Reid, added: “I cannot stress enough how dangerous this area is just now and the fencing has been put up for everyone’s safety. People should stay away from the area and we will be carrying out patrols to reinforce this message.
“Anyone caught within the school or tampering with the fence will be dealt with appropriately.
“The school is out of bounds, and I would ask anyone who witnesses anyone in the grounds to call us at the time on the 101 number, or 999 if it is an emergency.”

For updates on the fire, teaching arrangements and support, visit www.scotborders.gov.uk/phsfire