Schools' protesters still flying the flag (From Free Press Series)

Schools' protesters still flying the flag

Campaigners fighting to save three schools in Torfaen vowed to fight on after councillors approved an education blueprint recommending their closure.

Feelings are running high as Torfaen council earmarked Ponthir, Brookfield and Pentwyn primaries for closure in a bid to combat the rising number of surplus places.

Now councillors have approved an updated School organisation Plan, which includes the controversial proposals to axe the schools.

Final discussions between cabinet members are due to take place on June 8.

But despite the latest move, campaigners for Brookfield and Ponthir primaries were upbeat.

Paul Underwood, a parent governor at Brookfield, and campaign organiser, said: "We are continuing to consult on our proposals to keep the school, and the meetings we have had with education chiefs have been very positive. On each of the seven criteria laid down for closure, we have provided solid arguments countering those of the council, so we remain quietly optimistic."

Campaigners fighting save Brookfield School drew up a £580,000 plan to improve the site and take pupils from nearby Oakfield primary. Education chiefs were said to be impressed by the proposals and twice met campaigners to discuss them.

The seven criteria laid down by the council include number of surplus places, number of pupils drawn from outside the school's catchment area, and academic achievement.

Chairman of Ponthir community council Jenny Nancarrow said: "We are as upbeat as ever and extremely busy with the campaign.

"We are still hopeful the decision on June 8 will not go against us." Mrs Nancarrow said "new developments" in the campaign would be revealed shortly.

Torfaen council estimates that by 2008 one in four primary school places will be surplus.

In his report on the School Organisation Plan Councillor John Turner, executive member for education, told members: "This situation provides an opportunity to invest in the fabric of our schools at the same time as we seek to make a more efficient provision of places."

He said the council would be investing in more 'all-through' primaries. Councillor Turner added: "You have our assurance that there will be no change for change's sake."

However, he said changes which benefited learners would be explored.