The result of a legal test case to decide the fate of four island schools should be known early in the new year.
Highland Council has defended its decision to merge four small schools on Skye during a two-day hearing at Portree Sheriff Court.
The authority approved proposals earlier this year to close Edinbane, Knockbreck and Struan, and merge them in a new building at Dunvegan.
The decision was refused by the School Closure Review Panel which claimed the council had failed to consult fully with locals. It was the first ruling by the new panel, which consider proposals for schools if called in by Scottish ministers.
Parents of pupils at the schools, in northwest Skye, oppose the merger arguing that it would be “detrimental” to pupils and staff.
The panel’s decision was challenged in court by the council which claims the body “exceeded its jurisdiction” in reaching its decision.
Speaking afterwards, the council’s care and learning director Bill Alexander said: “Further to the consultations we have held, we are clear about the educational benefit that would be provided by a new school.
“We respect and understand the contrary views of some families, but a new state of the art school will provide enhanced facilities and sustainable provision for these communities for years to come.
“The council believes the panel has misinterpreted the legislation and acted beyond its powers in not consenting to a new school.”
The panel had concluded that the council had not fulfilled its obligations under the Schools (Consultation) (Scotland) Act 2010.
Speaking last night, Edinbane Parent Council chairwoman Frances Maclean said: “The council failed to properly consider community impact. We understand the budgetary problem, but we are repeatedly told by the council that was not a factor. If that’s true, we don’t see any good reason for closing them.”
A full written judgement is expected in a few months’ time.