Crossroads Primary School closure recommendation to progress
Councillors will be asked later this month to approve the permanent closure of Crossroads Primary School, which has been mothballed since 2023.
The Education, Children’s and Leisure Services Committee agreed today (Tuesday 13 May) to recommend to the full council the closure of the school following the outcome of a full statutory consultation process.
The school at Grange, near Keith, was mothballed in January 2023 after the school roll fell below the council’s minimum threshold of 15 pupils for a couple of years. While there have been a few enrolment requests since 2023, the roll has remained well below 15.
A statutory consultation took place from 23 September to 15 November 2024, focusing on the council’s proposal to close the school permanently and re-zone its catchment area.
Consultees were invited to share their views via an online survey, in writing, and at public meetings. Pupils at four neighbouring schools were also involved in the consultation process.
Feedback from the consultation showed general support for closing Crossroads Primary School, with the preferred option being to split the catchment area between Keith and Rothiemay primary schools.
An independent report by Education Scotland supported the closure proposal, highlighting the educational benefits for pupils in attending other local schools. Inspectors noted that children have settled well into neighbouring schools and that permanent closure would provide greater stability for families and staff.
Officers within the Moray Council’s Education Resources and Communities Service and Education Service reviewed all responses to the consultation and concluded that closure would support pupils to access wider learning opportunities, better facilities, and improved social interaction.
Chair of the Education, Children’s and Leisure Services Committee, Cllr Kathleen Robertson, said: “Deciding to close a school is never easy and is only considered after thorough review and consultation. Crossroads Primary School has played an important role in the community, but since being mothballed, the school roll has remained well below the minimum required. Children have continued their education in nearby schools, where they benefit from a wider curriculum, better facilities, and greater opportunities to build friendships. After reflecting on the consultation feedback and Education Scotland’s findings, we believe this is the right step for pupils’ long-term educational interests.”
A final decision on whether to permanently close Crossroads Primary School will be made at the meeting of Moray Council on 21 May 2025.
The consultation report is available on the council website here.