Council notes that last year the Labour administration stopped work on the plans for a new build one-form entry primary school in Bishopston.  This school was planned to open in September 2009 and would have increased primary school capacity in an area of the city where there is severe pressure on places.

Council notes that the Labour administration made a cabinet decision in January 2008 to enlarge the Sefton Park schools on their current site

Council further notes the many statements and questions concerning these expansions that have been submitted by local residents to Full Council, to the cabinet and to the Children’s Scrutiny Commission. 

Council urges that the cabinet speedily addresses the following issues

• the inadequacy of the consultation processes that have left the local community feeling that their voice is not welcomed and their views not considered.
• the educational reasoning behind the decision and its impact on pupil attainment,
• the means by which the special characteristics of the schools which make them very popular with parents and carers will be preserved
• the advisability of reverting to the original plan

Council further urges that the Executive Member for CYPS should undertake full debate with parents and carers, staff and governors on the expansions before any further decisions are made.

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