Liberal Democrats call for halt to Middle School programme

12.00.00am GMT Fri 27th Mar 2009

Liberal Democrats have called for a halt to the programme of Middle School closures. Speaking at a meeting of the County Council this week Lib Dem group leader Kathy Pollard said that the risks of proceeding were now too great to continue.

Mrs. Pollard commented "When the County Council first began the review of the 3 tier school system we were in quite a different financial climate. However when the issue was discussed at the council's February Cabinet meeting a long list of risks were identified. The report stated that high-level risks surround the timetable, costs and performance.

Given falling land prices, uncertainties about funding from the Learning and Skills Council and the unpopularity of the closure of Middle Schools it is surely time to call a halt. The Conservatives have already alienated many people in the affected parts of the County. People feel they are just not being listened to.

I have felt from the start that this was a major distraction for the service and falling GCSE results in the County are symptomatic of a department which has taken its eye off the ball."

In answer to a direct question about whether the Conservatives would now call a halt to the programme, Portfolio Holder for Children and Young People's services, Patricia O'Brien answered "Certainly not".