Fire that closed down primary school treated as deliberate

A fire that closed down a primary school in Aberdeenshire is being treated as deliberate.

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service crews were called to Dales Park school on Berryden Road in Peterhead at around 3am on Friday.

Four fire engines were dispatched to the scene, and firefighters extinguished the blaze, leaving around five hours later.

There were no reported casualties. The school was closed down to all pupils and staff on Friday due to the blaze.

The school remains closed this week with temporary alternative arrangements in place for pupils.

Police Scotland confirmed the fire is now being treated as deliberate as enquiries continue.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Around 5am on Friday, May 22, 2026, we received a report of a fire at a premises in Dales Park, Peterhead.

“The fire was extinguished by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service. No injuries were reported.

“The fire is being treated as wilful and enquiries are ongoing.”

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