Express & Star

Parents to protest over Coseley School closure threat

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A public protest will be held outside Dudley Council House over the future of a closure-threatened school.

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Around 1,500 people have signed a petition after it emerged talks had been held over the possible closure of The Coseley School.

Concerns have been circulating across social media by parents urging the authorities to consult them over the school's future.

Parents will protest before a Dudley Council cabinet meeting next week - where the issue will be discussing during a private session.

Cabinet members will meet on Monday at 6pm at the council house, in Priory Road, where the school will be on the agenda.

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Parent Michaela Garbett is helping organise the protest and co-ordinate the petition in the wake of the revelation that the school's long term future in doubt.

The 37-year-old, whose daughter Charlotte attends the school, says parents fear about the impact on their childrens' education.

"Our children's futures are at risk by this," said Mrs Garbett, who lives in Coseley.

"The main reason why we want to protest is that it is a closed section of the cabinet meeting with no public involvement.

"It will cause a bit of disappointment. The fact that people have signed the petition shows the strength of feeling about this."

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Parents had been contacting the Express & Star's Facebook page with their views on the potential closure.

Amy White said: "Disgusting if they close this school. The community need it and won't let it go without a fight!"

Kerrie Bourne added: "Shocking!! These kids need that school! I went there as a child! It's thanks to the dedication of the staff, that I am where I am today!"

Protestors will be gathering outside the council house from 5pm ahead of the meeting.

Dudley Council leader, Councillor Pete Lowe, said the school's future was being debated behind closed doors due to discussions on 'financial and/or business affairs'.

Councillors are yet to take a decision on whether to consult parents on the future of the school and say this will be one of the items discussed during Monday evening's meeting.

He said however say that a 'number of positive options' are being discussed for the school's future.

Dudley UKIP group leader, Councillor Paul Brothwood,said: "I will explore the options in Cabinet and ensure the Labour group are held to account for yet another mess. I am deeply concerned for local pupils and hope a speedy solution can be found."