WORK on a new multi-million-pound primary school could start within a matter of months – if approved by councillors.

More than £14 million has been set aside to create a replacement Whitecraig Primary School.

Plans for the school, which would feature eight classrooms, with the potential to expand over time, will be considered by members of East Lothian Council’s planning committee on Tuesday.

Elected members will be asked to approve the plans, which also features an early years centre, as well as a multi-purpose hall and resource centre.

An artificial sports pitch, playground equipment and parking are also included in the plans.

If approved, it is hoped that work could start in the summer and be ready for youngsters to attend the new school in early 2025.

A council spokeswoman highlighted the need for a replacement school, with the existing building dating back more than 60 years.

She said: “A new school is needed in the village to accommodate a growing school population as a result of ongoing and planned residential development within the area.

“The current school building, which dates from 1959, has been rated category C for condition and suitability and would be difficult to extend effectively in a way that would provide an acceptable configuration for the whole school.

“The replacement school offers an opportunity to provide modern learning spaces in an energy efficient building.”

Consultation with residents in the village and surrounding area took place when proposals were first being drawn up.

Feedback was taken on board and it is hoped that the facility will “address inequalities within the village in terms of access to local facilities and employment opportunities”.

The planning official’s report also highlights the plans for the new school.

It reads: “The proposed new school would replace and expand the existing primary school to accommodate growth in the area, as well as enhancing community facilities.

“The proposed new school is designed to initially accommodate eight classrooms with the capacity to increase to 10 classrooms over time.

“It would incorporate an Early Years Centre and is envisaged to be an integrated facility within the area; an educational facility that will also provide community learning.

“The proposed primary school building with integrated early years centre will include a multi-purpose hall and resource centre.”

The roundabout outside the school will be “reconfigured”, with a car park created to the west of the building.

Pedestrian access will be created from Whitecraig Crescent and Carberry Court, with an “arrival plaza” and pedestrian access from the Whitecraig South development.