Designed by JM Architects, the new school will be built in Wallyford and will take pupils from the Pinkie St Peter’s Primary School and Wallyford Primary School catchment areas.

A report on Musselburgh’s Local Development Plan in 2014 identified the need to investigate increased education capacity because of new housing developments in the area.

A pre-consultation exercise was undertaken by the council’s education department in 2015 on three education options for the delivery of additional secondary education capacity, and in April 2016 approval was given by East Lothian Council to consult on the proposal to establish a new, additional secondary school in Wallyford in 2020 or as soon as possible thereafter.

Education Scotland reported that the proposal to establish a new, additional secondary school had the potential to bring about educational benefits, as it would address the capacity issues on Musselburgh Grammar.

Shamin Akhtar, cabinet spokesperson for education and children’s services, said: “The proposal for a new additional school is the best solution to ensuring that we continue to provide a quality education experience for our young people in the Musselburgh area as our community grows. If we don’t agree an education solution then Musselburgh Grammar will become overcrowded.

“The school has benefitting hugely from the council’s investment in the Construction & Technology Centre of £100,000 as well as excess of £170,000 towards its IT infrastructure last year. Over the last year £417,000 has been spent on Musselburgh Grammar School on planned maintenance.”