School grounds to close in bid to stop vandalism and fouling

Published on Friday 24 July 2009 10:34

THE grounds of a school, popular with dogwalkers and others seeking a shortcut, are to be closed outside term time in a bid to reduce vandalism and dog fouling.

A project to upgrade the rear access road to Ross High School in Tranent and introduce new fencing and gates at the junction of King's Road is currently under way.

But from 3 August, the gates at the King's Road entrance will only be opened during term-time in the mornings and evenings for school pupils to get in to the school and to leave it.

East Lothian Council education leader Peter MacKenzie said: "We have decided to close the gates in an effort to ensure the safety of the pupils and security of the school. I know that over the years many local people have used the grounds of Ross High School as a shortcut and a place to walk dogs. Although most people behave responsibly, some don't. As a result, the school has suffered from acts of malicious damage and dog fouling.

"I do understand that some people may find this inconvenient to start with, but I hope that on reflection they will agree that the safety and security of our young people must take precedence."