West Dunbartonshire Council will decide later this month on the proposal which will incorporate two schools, an early learning centre and a specialist language unit.

However, in a report to be presented to the educational services committee, executive director Terry Lanagan has recommended the plan is withdrawn in light of reservations expressed by Educational Scotland and in addition to opposition from parents groups and the Archdiocese of Glasgow.

The proposal is for a new Riverside Early Learning and Childcare Centre and new Renton Primary School and Language Unit developed along with a new co-located St Mary’s Primary School, incorporating St Martin’s Primary School. The development would have been constructed on an area currently occupied by a football pitch at the front of Vale of Leven Academy as well as the grounds of St Martin’s Primary School.

The committee report details the results of the council’s consultation on the plans including an online survey. Of the 670 responses received, 401 were against the proposal, 167 were in favour and 102 did not express an opinion.

Submissions against the proposal were received from the Parent Councils of St Mary’s, St Martin’s and Renton primary schools and Vale of Leven Academy as well as teaching staff at St Mary’s and Vale of Leven Academy and the Archdiocese of Glasgow.

Responses in favour of the new school were submitted on behalf of teachers from St Martin’s and Renton primaries and the language unit.

Mr Lanagan has recommended that councillors agree to withdraw the proposal and instruct officers to develop new plans to address issues affecting the schools estate, taking account of the poor condition of the Renton and St Martin’s/Riverside buildings and the low roll of St Martin’s.

Mr Lanagan said: “While it’s clear there are significant educational benefits to some groups of pupils, I appreciate that Education Scotland has reservations and in addition there has been significant opposition from some members of the public and the Archdiocese.

“As a result I am recommending the committee withdraws the current proposal and allows officers to develop new plans for the school estate in Alexandria.”