Plans to relocate Wirral's Gilbrook special school move a step closer (From Wirral Globe)

Plans to relocate Wirral's Gilbrook special school move a step closer

12:49pm Thursday 11th June 2009 in Search By Leigh Marles

Consultation has begun over proposals to relocate Gilbrook Special School in Birkenhead to the former Arrowe Hill School site in Woodchurch.

Governors of Gilbrook had asked the local authority to look at moving the school to a larger building with more outdoor space.

The possibility of a move to the newly-renovated site at Arrowe Hill has now been discussed by Wirral Council's cabinet, which agreed that relocation would be beneficial.

Arrowe Hill is due to close at the end of July, as part of the council's surplus primary school places review.

Consultation is now needed with parents, staff, governors and others related to Gilbrook School.

They are invited to attend Gilbrook School on Wednesday, June 24, at 10am, to find out more information and talk to representatives of the Children and Young People’s Department.

Cllr Phil Davies, a governor at Gilbrook, and the council's cabinet member for children's services, said the new site would offer more classrooms and meeting rooms, a larger staffroom and more parking as well as a substantial increase in hard and soft play areas.

He said: "The general feedback so far has been good, very positive.

"The extra space and facilities at Arrowe Hill would make for a much better experience for the pupils."

Anyone wanting more information about the proposal can visit www.wirral-mbc.gov.uk/gilbrook.asp.

A consultation leaflet will also be available in certain libraries, community centres and One Stop Shops.