Contractors O’Hare & McGovern are currently building the £35 million Boroughmuir High School next to the Union Canal at Fountainbridge, a project which began in November 2014.

It was originally anticipated that the school would open in August 2016, but as delays have mounted, this has been postponed first to October 2016, then to Christmas 2016, then February 2017.

Now, due to the outstanding work programme and discussions between council staff, chief executive Andrew Kerr and the contractor, the new school will now be completed in April 2017.

The school will then open at the start of the new school year in August 2017.

The council said it will now seek compensation from O’Hare & McGovern in line with the terms of the contract.

Councillor Paul Godzik said: “This is understandably disappointing news for the whole school community and we certainly share their frustration at this fresh delay. We have made clear our displeasure at the way the project has progressed to date and will be seeking compensation in line with the terms of the contract.

“By postponing the opening until the start of the next school year, we can ensure pupils can sit their exams without the upheaval of moving into a new building.”