A PROPOSAL that could see the closure of four local primary schools is being pushed forward following a meeting in Shirehall last week.
The decision, made by Shropshire Council's Cabinet last Tuesday, means a consultation to change the current structure of 33 schools across the county will go ahead.
Under the proposals, Maesbury Primary School would close, with Ifton Heath Primary School merging with Rhyn Park School in St Martins, and Baschurch, Weston Lullingfields and Myddle primary schools joining together as a federation.
More than 100 campaigners listened intently to the meeting, which was relayed to them in a separate room, but any hopes of dissuading the members were dashed when they voted unanimously in favour of pushing ahead with the next stage of the proposal.
Speaking on behalf of Maesbury Primary School before the vote was taken, local councillor Joyce Barrow described the establishment as a "unique and safe environment," where every individual child is known to the staff and commented on how "significant investments" in facilities have recently been made there.
She added that the school "offers unique provisions for children with special needs," children who would otherwise cost Shropshire Council on average £15,000 if they were sent to a 'special' establishment.
Councillor Aggie Caesar-Homden, portfolio holder for Children and Young People's Services, then acknowledged a petition sent by supporters of Maesbury School, but said: "This is not about closing schools - this is just a proposal at this stage and no decisions have been made.
"No change is not an option, some change is needed - but different areas need different provisions," she said.
Council Leader, Councillor Keith Barrow tried to allay protesters' fears by stressing the list of affected schools was not fixed and confirmed parents and carers would be included in what he said was a "genuine consultation."
"None of us want to close schools," he said. "But, unfortunately, we have a financial problem and we can no longer take the money from general funds."
The six-week consultation will run from Monday, February 28 to Friday, April 8, the responses of which will be presented to the Cabinet on Wednesday, May 4.
If approved the changes will begin to take effect from this September.