Mothballed school in Moray to close permanently over falling pupil numbers

A school in Moray is to close for good after pupil numbers fell below the minimum threshold for several years in a row.

Crossroads Primary School near Keith, which was mothballed in January 2023 after pupil numbers fell to ten, is to close permanently.

The pupil roll remained “well below” the council’s minimum threshold of 15 for successive years with a decision made at full council to proceed with complete closure.

Scottish Ministers said the council had fulfilled its obligations under the Schools (Consultation) (Scotland) Act 2010.

Teaching at the school has ended with immediate effect, and the catchment area will be permanently reassigned to Keith and Rothiemay Primary Schools.

Pupils from the Grange area have been attending other schools for a number of years, and their existing arrangements will remain unchanged by the closure.

The local authority has said it will work with the community to consider potential future uses for the school building and grounds.

Leader of Moray Council, Cllr Kathleen Robertson, who also chairs the Education, Children’s and Leisure Services Committee, said: “This decision has been taken with the best interests of pupils and the wider community in mind.

“With the school having been mothballed for over two years and no significant increase in the pupil roll, it’s important to provide clarity for families and ensure continuity of education in nearby schools.

“We’re committed to working closely with the local community to explore meaningful and sustainable future uses for the Crossroads school site.”

The ministerial decision letter has been published on the Scottish Government website.