High School(s) will close under plans

Concern is mounting after councillors today (Tuesday) agreed to the closure of “a sufficient number” of schools as part of cost-cutting measures.

Last week MyWelshpool reported how Powys County Council had received an independent report from Price Waterhouse Cooper suggesting three high schools and sixth forms in the county should be closed.

And now our sister site MyNewtown is reporting that councillors have agreed with the report but amended it to a “sufficient number”, sparking fears of cuts and closures in Montgomeryshire.

The actual schools and sixth forms have not been named, although it is understood at least one high school in north Powys will be part of the plans.

Councillors have also supported a recommendation for a new Welsh medium high school, although this will mean other Welsh medium streams will be consolidated into larger schools.

Montgomeryshire has six high schools with sixth forms at Llanidloes, Newtown, Machynlleth, Llanfair Caereinion, Welshpool (pictured) and Llanfyllin.

A full report is due to go to councillors in March for consideration.