This report presents the outcome of the preliminary stakeholder consultation (pre-statutory) on the proposal to close Shapla Primary school.

It explains the background and reasons for the first stage of the consultation; the responses received with the views of parents, pupils, staff and the general public. It recommends for the Mayor in Cabinet to consider whether or not to proceed to the next stage of the process, which would be to issue a statutory notice.

The report includes an analysis of all representations received and any responses made; risk and opportunities; financial implications, officer’s recommendations; decisions available to the Mayor in Cabinet.

The Mayor in Cabinet is statutorily required to take a decision on whether or not to proceed to the next stage, which would be to issue a statutory notice requiring a formal public consultation on the closure of St Matthias Primary School.

The Pre-Decision Scrutiny Questions and officer responses were noted.

DECISION

1.       To agree to move to the publication of a statutory notice for 28 days, in respect of the proposal to close Shapla Primary School. This will take effect from 31^st August 2021, with the displaced pupils admitted to other nearby schools.

2.    To note the Equalities Assessment set out in Section 4 and attached as Appendix 2.

Action by:

CORPORATE DIRECTOR, CHILDREN AND CULTURE (J. THOMAS)

(Service Head for Pupil Access and School Sufficiency (T. Bryan)

(School Organisation Manager (I. Mkparu)