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ROB Rigby is calling for a public inquiry into plans to rebuild Walkden High School and revamp the city’s other secondary schools under the Building Schools for the Future proposals.
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BSF in a mess claims worried campaigner
Emma Fitzgerald31/ 5/2007
AN ANGRY resident is calling for a public inquiry into £110m plans to overhaul the city's secondary schools.
Rob Rigby has already spoken out against proposals to rebuild Walkden High School but is now claiming the whole scheme is 'a fiasco' which needs to be stopped.
The 59-year-old, of Mereclough Avenue, is concerned about the change in pupil numbers proposed for each school under the Building Schools for the Future (BSF) proposals.
He says concerns have been raised about almost every aspect of the plans, which if approved, could begin with phase one in 2009.
Rob said: "Let's look at the mess this BSF programme is in. Harrop Fold is being built to hold 1,200 pupils but only 900 will use it - that will leave a wing for 300 pupils empty. The closure of St George's - we all know that is an ongoing story and I wish them all the best in keeping the school open - and the diocese has described spending £19m at a new site for All Hallows as nonsense.
"Walkden High School is a school with as yet no proper access. Local councillors are also against plans to build a new media academy to replace Hope High, branding the proposed Salford Quays site as unsuitable.
"With the rebuilding of Moorside and Swinton High will they have the same problem as Harrop Fold but the other way round."
He added: "The council have seen this pot of gold from the Government and are intent on steamrolling their way through the views of the residents and their elected representatives who live nearest to these developments. I now think it is time for some form of public inquiry."
A council spokesman said it was difficult to address each point raised by Mr Rigby and inappropriate until the authority has received feedback from the Government on the plans.
Councillor John Warmisham, lead member for children's services at Salford City Council, said: "BSF is a major Government investment programme into education across the UK, from which Salford is to benefit as one of the earlier wave local authorities.
"The scheme will vastly improve the quality of education and the quality of provision across the city and all secondary schools will benefit as part of a coordinated renewal plan."
He added: "An outline plan has been developed, taking into account the views that have been invited as part of a substantial consultation process. The Government will evaluate the business case, taking account of all representations made.
"We will continue to listen to people's views and take on board their comments and any concerns raised."
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7/06/2007 at 15:38
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24/06/2007 at 08:40