Council chiefs have insisted school toilets will remain open at all times in the future, after claims pupils were being locked and pupils prevented from using them.

In Feburary the Times reported how students at Greenwood Academy were being denied access to the bathrooms and sanitary products during the school day.

Pupils further alleged that when they were open they were in a poor condition with human waste left on the floor.

They also said they had contacted the school with their concerns, but no action was taken.

Conservative councillor Cameron Inglis raised the issue at a full meeting of North Ayrshire Council on Wednesday, March 29.

He said:"I would like an update on the shocking news news that toilets have been locked and pupils stopped from using the toilets."

In his response, the authority's deputy leader, Irvine West SNP councillor Shaun MacAulay, said: "It is important to note that all schools in North Ayrshire including Greenwood Academy have access to toilets facilities and sanitary products at all times of the day

"This has been checked and confirmed by all head teachers following press interest.

"Pupils have been reminded of the location of toilet facilities during class time.

"In addition to this we are keen to work with young people to further enhance the sense of community and collective responsibility in terms of taking pride with their school environment

"We are taking suggestions for improvements and using facilities responsibly.

"This will be taken forward at the next joint cabinet meeting."

Students have also alleged that there are no free period products available in the school - and that sanitary bins are rarely emptied and are surrounded by flies.

One claimed that she had bled though he clothes because she could not get any sanitary items.

Others have said have have to leave school to go to the toilet, thus missing on vital classes.

Pupils have also claimed that they have refused toilet access if they didn’t have a toilet pass – something only given out to pupils with medical conditions.

In a previous response to the allegations, North Ayrshire Council apologised and said they would make sure period products are replaced - but insisted there was no toilet ban.