Local MSP Jackie Baillie has condemned the Scottish Government for slashing the budget for a new Dumbarton Academy in half before the project has even begun.

Just months after agreeing to rebuild Dumbarton Academy at a cost of approximately £30 million, the Scottish Government is now saying it will contribute about £11 million rather that the expected £20 million of funding.

According to the school building programme announced by the former Cabinet Secretary for Education, new projects would be funded by a 66% contribution from the Scottish Government and a 33% contribution from Councils. West Dunbartonshire Council therefore expected to receive £20 million from the Government.

It would appear that the Scottish Government is reneging on its commitment to properly fund the school, compromising the quality and facilities at the new school and potentially jeopardising the timetable for delivery.

Jackie said, "I am deeply disappointed that the Scottish Government is not honouring its commitment to Dumbarton Academy.

"The former Cabinet Secretary for Education and the Council acknowledged that £30 million was needed to rebuild a secondary school at Dumbarton Academy. For the SNP to promise £20 million and then slash this to £11 million is an insult to all the pupils, teachers and staff at the school.

"I am deeply concerned that due to poor funding this school will not match the quality and excellence of those planned and commissioned under Labour such as the Vale of Leven Academy, only a few miles away.

"I have asked the First Minister to intervene and restore the level of funding so that we have a quality new school, not a cut price one.

"I will continue to fight for adequate funding that will deliver the kind of top class learning facility that Dumbarton deserves."