TODAY'S (Thursday) Scottish Government announcement bringing forward funding for the development of a new Kelso High School, has been welcomed by SNP MSP for South Scotland, Paul Wheelhouse.

Following significant delays earlier this year caused by a European funding ruling, the new school will provide a much needed upgrade to the current facility and will allow Scottish Borders Council to progress the relocation of the old Kelso High School to the new site at Nethershot on Angraflat Road as previously planned.

Following the announcement, Paul Wheelhouse said: "This is a welcome relief for all concerned following the delay to funding announced in February this year and I have expressed my gratitude, on behalf of my constituents, to Mr Swinney and the Scottish Government for stepping in to find a solution with this multi-million pound investment in developing a new High School that will bring the facilities for pupils up to 21st century standards.

“There can be few issues of greater importance to communities than investing in the education of our young people and I am really delighted that the new Kelso High School relocation can go ahead as planned and I look forward to seeing it progress, as I am sure are all pupils, parents and staff."

Kelso Councillor Tom Weatherston also welcomed the news: "The public have been very patient over many years and it was frustrating to be held up at the last minute with a very complex issue that was out of our control.

"However, we must look forward and it's exiting times ahead for parents and pupils.

"As well as a first class new school building, we will also, for the first time, have on site top grade sporting facilities.

"I would like to thank everyone in Kelso who over many years campaigned in a very constructive way for Kelso to get new schools and also Council officers and the Government for finally delivering on these great projects."