AM TO MEET LOCALS OVER CONCERNS AT PLAN FOR NEW SCHOOL

Sian David - 27 June 2005

Gower AA Edwina Hart is to meet Swansea residents to discuss plans to build a new school in West Cross, as part of the city's LEA reorganisation. A public meeting to discuss Swansea Council's proposal to site a Welsh medium school, Llwynderw Primary, next to Grange Primary School, West Cross, will be held tonight.

Local councillors will also be present at the meeting.Parents of pupils at Grange School have already expressed concern about the proposal at a meeting with cabinet member for education Councillor Mike Day.

They are concerned that the new 480-pupil school will increase traffic levels in the area and that pupils will be less safe walking to school.

They are also worried about the size of the new building and its proximity to Grange School and West Cross House, which accommodates vulnerable children.A statement released by parents said: "The lack of clear answers at the meeting left parents frustrated and angry."

Local residents have yet to be consulted about the additional burden of a 480-pupil school."

Councillor Day has already visited several schools in Swansea as part of the schools shake-up.

The plans include the closure of Dylan Thomas Community School, with the transfer of the pupils to Bishop Gore Comprehensive - a move which has also proved unpopular with parents.

Further meetings are planned to discuss proposals to improve education across the city and county.

Councillor Day said today: "The meetings have been an excellent opportunity to meet parents, pupils and teachers and to hear their views on the proposals.

"I have been delighted with the way they have put forward their views and I look forward to attending more meetings in the coming weeks.

"No decisions have been taken on the future of schools.

"That is why this consultation process is so important.

"The cabinet is prepared to listen and take into account any ideas put forward."

The meeting will take place at Grange School, West Cross Avenue, tonight at 7pm