Save Our School protest on a knife edge

7:46am Friday 20th June 2008

Comments (0)   Have your say »

THE fate of my historic old school could now be decided.

At the time of going to press the council’s planning committee was discussing recommendations that the demolition of the former Leigh Girls’ Grammar, which now houses Leigh Central Primary, and the neighbouring Sacred Heart Primary schools should go ahead to make way for a new £6.5m combined school on the Windermere Road site.

Objectors put their case to preserve the unique example of Edwardian architecture at a site visit by councillors on Tuesday before travelling to the Wigan committee meeting where the proposals were to be discussed.

Planners received 46 letters of objection and a petition.

One letter of support from the head of Leigh Sacred Heart, Mrs Helen Ahmed, said staff and pupils deserve better than they have and urged councillors to give them a new school to help in the quest to provide an outstanding education for the area’s children.

Included in the objections was a letter from The Prince’s Regeneration Trust which stated that proposals with regard to the LGGS building had been drawn to the attention of their patron, HRH The Prince of Wales, by a protestor and they had been asked for a view.

Chief executive Ros Kerslake said: “I hope the plans reflect its importance in the community as a valued piece of historical heritage.

“I do appreciate the need for modern facilities but as you know these requirements can be integrated into the historic fabric of existing buildings. I am heartened to hear that the council’s conservation officer also holds this point of view.”

Before the meetings Angry Save Our School protestors, who have fought a relentless battle to save the shrine to a top class education, were hopeful that any final decision would be adjourned for further discussion.

Leader Mrs Avis Freeman said: “I will be horrified if the decision goes against saving the school. The building has so much potential and is of historical importance and significance.”

The main thrust of opposition is the loss of the old grammar school due to its architectural merit and contribution to civic pride, but planners’ observations reveal other material considerations which must be weighed against the desire to protect the building, which objectors say should be incorporated into the new school.

The proposed new building would cater for 525 children and have shared facilities but both schools would keep their separate identities.

I’ve got my fingers crossed, I’d be sad to see the school I loved and which is part of my history go, but hopefully whatever decision has been made will be the best for the town.

It’s a very, very difficult one to have had to make.