A newly built school has been forced to cut off gas supplies in some of its main classrooms amid growing safety concerns.

Inverness Royal Academy opened its doors to pupils just last month but the building's contractors have already been called back in to resolve concerns over the gas supply, intermittent power and ICT issues.

The Highland Council were forced to call in the Health and Safety Executive and Gas Safe earlier this week to examine the problem and parents and pupils have now been informed that supplies have been cut in Home Economics, Science, Craft, Design and Technology classrooms.

A council spokesman said: "At the Council’s request, Gas Safe and Health & Safety Executive representatives were asked to attend the school on Tuesday 13 September to provide an independent inspection and assurance of the gas installations at the site.

"This precautionary step was taken by the Council with the safety of building users being the main concern.

"The outcome of the visit was that in Home Economics, Science, Craft, Design and Technology, the gas supply was shut off to allow further inspections of the pipework and until remedial works are concluded. The heating and hot water system within the school is unaffected."

Contractors Hub North Scotland Ltd and Morrison Construction are now working to resolve the issue, as well as problems with power cuts and incomplete ICT installations.

There have also been issues with overcrowding in the dining area and other parts of the school which staff are now looking to address by changing how and where lunches are served and eater.

The council spokesman added: "While it is very unfortunate that these issues have arisen, the Council acknowledges the commitment and hard work of teaching and support staff in delivering the curriculum in spite of the challenges they face.

"The health and safety of staff and pupils continues to be of the utmost priority to the Council, and arrangements are in place to address the issues identified."