I have given my support to Greenshaw High School who are seeking funding to build a new secondary school in Sutton.
Just as doctors can set up surgeries, so the Conservatives’ Free Schools programme allows teachers the freedom to deliver the best schools for children.
The clock is ticking – we need the first of two schools by 2017 – and although most council discussions about a potential site are behind closed doors, Sutton Hospital seems the preferred option.
I am not opposed to Sutton Hospital as a site, but I do not think residents’ priorities are being sufficiently considered.
The shortage of school places is felt most in the north of the borough, and less than 20 per cent of Belmont residents I have surveyed rank a new school as their preferred use for the local hospital site. Sutton Council do not own the land and it will be expensive at a time when they are making cuts.
The long-derelict football pitch by the Sports Village on Rose Hill is already owned by Sutton Council and situated where more parents say they need a new school.
Plus, with world-class sporting facilities next door and good transport links, this site should receive careful consideration. Undoubtedly there are plenty of challenges for this site, but it should not be ignored.
Ultimately, I do not make the decision as to where a school might go, but I do believe the right thing to do is to ask residents their views before any decision is taken.
Consult, consider and respond in an open and transparent way: surely a common-sense approach to local decision making.
PAUL SCULLY
Conservative parliamentary candidate for Sutton and Cheam
- Send your letters to: letters@suttonguardian.co.uk
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