CONCERNS have been raised about playground space at Dargavel Primary School after the arrival of modular classrooms at the site.

The installation of the units at the Arrochar Drive facility, in Bishopton, is “on schedule” ahead of the new term starting in August but worries have been expressed about the impact they could have on room for pupils outside at break times.

A £1.7 million contract for the Portakabin works – necessary because a Renfrewshire Council roll projection blunder saw the school built too small – was approved at the end of last year.

But Bishopton councillor James MacLaren believes the space taken up by the three huts, which will each contain two classrooms, emphasises the need for the local authority to buy more land next to the school.

The Conservative politician said: “I just hope that there’s going to be enough space elsewhere around the school and that they can agree a land purchase to extend the playground area, otherwise it’s going to be chock-a-block.

“I mean, it’s going to be chock-a-block anyway – that’s why they have had to put in these three portacabins with six classrooms.

“It’s going to be busy.”

It is understood the council is negotiating with BAE Systems to secure land east of the existing school, which would allow for future expansion as required.

However, it is not known whether this would be for an extension of the school building or playground.

Councillor MacLaren added: “They’re going to have to consider playground and lunch times. They’re going to have to stagger these.

“Obviously at break times, you’ve got children making noise so that might well affect the children elsewhere while they’re learning.

“It’s not going to be easy.”

A council spokesperson said: “Installation of the modular classrooms is on schedule for the new school term.

“The council continues to have positive discussions with BAE Systems on land for education within the Dargavel area, which includes discussions on securing more land around Dargavel Primary School.

“The school have already considered how to stagger breaks and lunches to ensure there is enough space for children to play.”