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Move to calm fears over schools review

Eve Dugdale
12/11/2003

PARENTS worrying about possible school closures in Dukinfield have been told that no decision has yet been made.

In an attempt to match pupil numbers with school places and deal with the state of repair at some schools in the town, a review of primary schools is being carried out.

Councillor Joe Kitchen, cabinet deputy for lifelong learning, said: "We're doing area reviews. We've done Ashton and Mossley, now we're looking at Dukinfield. There's been a fall in school population in the primary sector and we're looking at nursery provision.

What we're doing now is consulting schools. I can understand people's concerns about their schools but no decision has been made. There has been talk of closing two schools but we wouldn't just close them down and not provide something else. There's all different options being looked at."

Councillor John Taylor said: "I have had a parent come to me with worries about the review. What I would say to them is to go to the meetings that have been called at the schools with their concerns."

A council spokeswoman said: "The birth rate in Dukinfield has fallen over several years and this has meant less children are requiring a primary school place. Some of the school buildings are in need of repair and only three of the primary schools have nurseries attached.

Responses are required in writing by January 9 following which a decision will be made as to which option is being implemented. Anyone wanting to comment should write to Joan Fludder at Tameside Council Offices, Wellington Road, Ashton, OL6 6DL.