Schools boss Ann Hartley has told the Journal she is “appalled” by allegations that Shirehall has already decided to amalgamate two south Shropshire primary schools, despite on-going talks.
A packed public meeting in Lydbury North this week heard allegations that a decision to merge the village primary school with nearby Clunbury School had already been made.
But speaking to the Journal this week, Councillor Ann Hartley, cabinet member for children’s services, said this was not the case.
“I stated at the Lydbury North meeting and the other governors and public meetings I have attended, that I have no prejudged the decision in my mind whatsover. I go into these meetings with a blank piece of paper.
“I’m appalled by this mischief making. It’s inappropriate and very negative.
“I’m listening to what people are saying and I will then report those views back to my cabinet colleagues.
“We will look at the outcome in May and then move forward on each individual school. it is not going to be a block decision.
“We will look at each proposal and all its merits, and alternative proposals. There’s no point going out if we have pre-determined the decision. We have no pre determined ideas.
It’s imperative for us to go in with no views.”
lFor more on the schools row, see South Shropshire Journal Postbag on Page 12, March 21, 2008.