An independent review into a Scottish school campus at the centre of health and safety concerns has found an elevated level of a banned chemical.
However, the review concludes the schools - built on a former landfill site - are safe and there is no link between the campus and illness.
Water and soil testing was carried out at the St Ambrose and Buchanan High School campus in Coatbridge , North Lanarkshire, after staff reported blue water and and expressed fears of a link between possible exposure to chemicals and illness among staff and pupils.
A report released today, highlights the chemical polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were found in one sample on the periphery of the school campus. A total of 65 soil samples were taken from the site and contaminant levels from the rest of these were "not of concern".
PCBs have been subject to an international industrial ban more than three decades ago after health concerns. They pose serious health risks to babies and children, who may suffer developmental and neurological problems from prolonged or repeated exposure to small amounts of PCBs.
The review recommends North Lanarkshire Council completes a "full and independently verified removal of the chemical as soon as possible". If this is completed the school could open reopen in time for the new term beginning next week.
A total of 65 soil samples were taken from the site and contaminant levels from the rest of these were "not of concern".
The report found water samples all pass drinking water quality standards but recommends further samples are tested in the coming months to address some "minor quality issues".
It also found the methane membrane under the school building was installed correctly and no landfill related gases have been detected, either during installation or currently.
Public health consultant, Dr Margaret Hannah who co-led the review, said: "Our principal finding is that the schools are safe, the site is safe and there is no link between the school and the reported health issues.
"However we have made recommendations for some work to be carried out in order to provide further public reassurance."
Robert Steenson, executive director for enterprise and communities at North Lanarkshire Council, said: "We are pleased that the independent review agrees with the council's position throughout, which is that the schools are safe and that there is no link between the schools and any serious illness.
"We look forward to welcoming pupils back for the start of the term next week to what are outstanding, high-performing schools with enthusiastic and dedicated staff."
