Conwy Schools shake up - Penmaenrhos area

Jun 17 2010 by Ian Hughes, North Wales Weekly News

PUPILS currently at Ysgol Penmaenrhos in Old Colwyn would move the relatively short distance to the nearby Ysgol Tan y Marian, situated just under half a mile away.

Cllr Brian Cossey is a governor at the infants school and stressed that, as it stands, proposals are only up for consultation and the opinions of all involved should be taken on board.

“Parents know what is best for the children and I am sure the council will take those views on board.”

He added: “We have to look at all potential savings on offer. Budgets will become significantly reduced over the next three years and we have to consider every possibility.

“It’s not just about money, it’s about what is best for the education of children. You have got to offer alternatives.”

Cllr Vivienne Parry lamented the potential loss of a wonderful building: “I’m gobsmacked, Penmaenrhos is a wonderful building inside. It’s always had good inspections and never any criticism.

“It is a lovely school with a lovely family feel to it. There’s been a lot of work done on it over the last few years, improving the grounds etc. It would be sad to see that wasted.”

She also said she hoped the council would take into consideration the recent approval of planning permission for nearby homes, something which could increase the number of youngsters in Penmaenrhos’s catchment area.

Dave Cowans is a governor at both schools and believes there’s definitely a problem that needs solving.

“It came somewhat out of the blue but the data in the report speaks for itself,” he says.

“Both headteachers are very professional and both equally excellent. I think this will ensure the whole process goes smoothly.

“The proximity of the two sites is also a bonus when you compare it to issues in more rural areas.”

He added: “When you have a school with around 50% of its places taken up you definitely need to look at it.

“I think there are around 70 pupils at Tan y Marian when they have room for 120. It all comes down to common sense.”

He was unsure as to whether boundaries in the area would be an issue, but said: “If this contributes to the difference in numbers then I am sure that will be looked into.”