Bruce and Radcliffe Call For Stand Alone St Andrews

12.00.00am UTC (GMT +0000) Mon 14th Feb 2005

Gordon Parliamentarians Malcolm Bruce MP and Nora Radcliffe MSP have written to Aberdeenshire Council outlining their concerns over the proposed closure of St Andrews School in Inverurie. The letter comes ahead of a meeting with Aberdeenshire Council Director of Education, Hamish Vernal which will take place next week.

Gordon Liberal Democrat Member of Parliament Malcolm Bruce commented:

"In other parts of Aberdeenshire many of the proposals in the schools review have been welcomed by local parents and teachers but it is clear there is universal opposition to the closure of St Andrew's School. A petition organised by parents of pupils at St Andrew's school recently gathered 7000 signatories and I have personally been contacted by a large number of constituents who are greatly concerned by the prospect of closure.

"I accept that there are issues with the existing school building that would require investment and refurbishment work, however, I am disappointed that there is not an option to retain the existing building or replace it with a new stand alone building for St Andrew's School amongst Aberdeenshire Council's proposals. I firmly believe that this is something that should be given further consideration."

Commenting today, Gordon MSP Nora Radcliffe said:

"The strength of opposition to the proposed closure of St Andrew's is testament to the excellent facilities and education opportunities available there. There is a great deal of specialist knowledge concentrated at St Andrew's School and I know pupils there, who come from across Aberdeenshire, receive first class support and education.

"It is important that the concerns of parents are accurately reflected and for that to happen, it has to be clear exactly what is being proposed. I will be seeking more information at our meeting with Mr Vernal on a number of issues which are causing concern amongst parents ranging from the content of the proposals themselves to the timescale for consultation.

"Both Malcolm and I will do what we can to facilitate discussion of the proposals and feeding back views to the Council. I would also strongly encourage parents make their views known to Aberdeenshire Council as part of the consultation process, as their input will help to shape the final decision.