Cabinet to defer decision on schools’ reorganisation proposal

Flintshire County Council’s Cabinet is due to consider the two school organisation proposals on Tuesday, March 10th.

The two proposals are:

• to amalgamate several Catholic schools in Flintshire and create a new 3-18 all-through school
• to amalgamate Saltney Ferry Primary School and Saltney Wood Memorial School

Late last week, after the publication of the meeting papers, the Council received a legal challenge in relation to the Catholic proposal which has raised concerns about aspects of the consultation process. These concerns could also have a bearing on the Saltney schools’ consultation.

The Council, whilst considering this challenge, sought its own legal advice which has been received today. It now needs additional time to review and address the matters raised before a final decision is made on both proposals.

Leader of Flintshire County Council, Councillor Dave Hughes, said:

“We recognise that this proposal has generated significant interest and strong views within our school communities.

“Following the legal challenge, we believe it is important to take the necessary time to carefully consider the concerns that have been raised regarding the consultation process.

“Deferring the decision will allow us to review these concerns thoroughly and ensure that Cabinet members have the fullest information available before determining the next steps.”