After a number of options were explored, officers have recommended that the new school is built on the playing fields within the former Garnock Academy site.

The land, which is in the current catchment area and close to the existing school, is owned by the council and is considered to be in good condition for development.

The recommendation was rubber-stamped by elected members at a meeting of North Ayrshire Council’s Cabinet with the new school expected to open in 2021.

Councillor John Bell, cabinet member for education and youth employment, said: “Getting a new primary school for Kilbirnie was a commitment of ours and formed part of our ten-year capital plan.

“We are extremely excited now that we’ve reached this stage in finalising and agreeing on where the new school should be based. We looked at five sites in total and marked each against a set of criteria.

“The site on the playing fields ticks a lot of boxes. It’s close to the current school which is ideal for pupils and families, it’s on council-owned land and therefore readily available at no extra cost and is a good size. It is also, importantly, in a good condition for development.

“The site chosen scored well in all the criteria and we’re delighted that we can look forward to what promises to be an exciting time for young people in the area.”