Edinburgh nursery recommended for demolition after ceiling collapse
The school shut suddenly in January after heavy rainfall revealed a significant leak
Councillors have been recommended to approve plans to demolish Calderglen Early Learning Centre in Wester Hailes.
Following heavy rainfall in January 2026, a significant leak from the ceiling in one of the playrooms took place and a small section of the ceiling collapsed. The building was deemed unsafe and has been closed since March.
All children were subsequently relocated to nearby early years settings at Sighthill, Canalview and Clovenstone nursery classes as well as Sighthill early learning centre.
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These arrangements have “worked well”, according to a council report, and there are no current issues with capacity in the area.
The future of the Calderglen building – located on Wester Hailes Road – will now be brought before councillors at the Education, Children and Families Committee on November 3. Officials will consider a report which has advised approving plans to demolish the former learning centre.
Costs for repairing the roof are estimated at £352,000 – with more updating and funds required to bring the building up to scratch, due to its age. Documents state: “On a value for money basis, it would be better to demolish the building and build a modern, energy efficient and fit for purpose early years facility.”
The early years centre was erected over 50 years ago in 1972 and has operated beyond its intended lifespan. Extensive upgrades may be needed to address widespread structural inadequacies beyond the costly roof repairs.
Instead, it is recommended to demolish the building while looking for ways to invest in existing schools and community properties.
Sites flagged as potential benefactors are Sighthill Primary School, Sighthill ELC, Gate 55 and “any other local provision which emerges as worthy of consideration during the engagement process”.
Replacing the Calderglen building was also explored, though officers said “there is no immediate need to provide additional capacity in the area” and suggested there may be better ways to use funds.
Councillors have been asked to approve plans next week during the committee meeting. If the recommendations are followed, future investments into nearby learning centres will proceed. A business case would also be developed for consideration in the future budget.
A report states: “Taking this place-based approach to engagement will make sure all necessary stakeholders are involved in the process and that any future investment proposals have the backing of the local community before being progressed.”