Parent power has won the fight to save Stracathro primary school.
In an unexpected announcement, Angus Council chiefs revealed on Friday that they are dropping plans to shut the rural primary which had been earmarked for closure in the first stage of a radical 30-year education vision for Angus.
The prospect of the 17-pupil primary closing had triggered a vociferous local campaign, with education officials told at a recent Edzell public meeting to drop the “daft” idea.
A full meeting of Angus Council next Thursday will be told that the intention is to leave Stracathro alone.
Campaigners had challenged the authority over many aspects of what they branded a flawed consultation, warning that they would fight the planned closure “every step of the way”.
Brechin and Edzell Independent and council leader Bob Myles said: “As we set out from the beginning of this process, we aim to conduct this work in an open and transparent manner.
“This includes listening to the community and taking on board their comments and questions.
“Having listened carefully to the feedback and comments received, particularly in relation to parents and carers of children presently attending the schools, it is proposed to stop the current formal consultation on the closure of Stracathro primary school and its early learning and childcare provision.
“I will give assurance now that Stracathro school will remain open,” said Mr Myles.
“This now will allow parents to plan where they wish to send their children for the next school session and beyond.”
He added: “As a local Brechin councillor I know the challenges these proposals give to the community, but it is right that we look at all schools across Angus, as we aim to deliver the best learning environments we can with our scarce resources.”
Commenting on the overall schools for the future programme, Children and Learning convener Councillor Mark Salmond said: “We are committed to delivering a long-term improvement plan for schools across Angus.
“This is an ambitious programme and we to provide the best quality learning environments for all of our children and young people.
“We are also mindful of making best use of limited resources.”
