The opening of the new Boroughmuir High in Edinburgh has been delayed to next August - a year later than originally planned.

Construction of the replacement secondary has been hit by a number of delays since work began in autumn 2014.

It was hoped pupils would be able to move into the building at Viewforth in August this year but was pushed back to January 2017.

On Thursday, it emerged the school will now not open until the start of the new school year following a "review of progress on construction".

This follows two earlier delays, which were blamed on adverse weather and "challenging" foundation work.

Edinburgh City Council chief executive Andrew Kerr held talks with contractors O'Hare McGovern earlier this week about the work still required at the site.

It is anticipated the building will be completed in April 2017 but pupils and staff will not move in until the summer holidays to avoid disruption during exams.

Councillor Paul Godzik, city education convener, said: "This is understandably disappointing news for the whole school community and we certainly share their frustration at this fresh delay.

"We have made clear our displeasure at the way the project has progressed to date and will be seeking compensation in line with the terms of the contract.

"By postponing the opening until the start of the next school year, we can ensure pupils can sit their exams without the upheaval of moving into a new building.

"When staff and pupils return for the new academic year next August, they'll be embarking on an exciting new chapter in Boroughmuir's history with a fantastic new teaching and learning environment to continue the school's first-class academic track record."

The local authority said it would seek compensation from the contractors in line with the terms of the contract.

Local Green councillor Melanie Main said was "astonished" at the latest delay.

She said: "The first priority for any new school building has to be that it is safe and fit for purpose on day one.

"And I don't doubt that officers have come to the right conclusion to delay the opening - now for the fourth time.

"However, I am astonished at how this has been handled. The contractor appointed is building a school in Scotland for the first time and, it appears, has really struggled with ground conditions and weather - things that could and should have been anticipated.

"There has been an increasing sense of excitement in the school community about the move so it is really disappointing to see yet more delay. After the dust has settled, lessons need to be learned."