Robslee: the fight goes on

But they admit they still have a long fight ahead to save Robslee primary.

As revealed in last week’s Extra, the Scottish government decided to call in East Renfrewshire council’s proposals as some areas in it were lacking.

Robslee pupil parent David McLellan told The Extra: “We are very happy with the decision. It is a huge relief but the battle isn’t over.

“We still have a lot to do and need to keep fighting these proposals. But it is a step in the right direction”.

Some 67 letters were received by the Scottish government pleading with ministers to call in the proposal.

In a written letter to the authority’s education director John Wilson, Jonathan Moore, head of school infrastructure unit, explained: “Whilst ministers were reassured to some extent by your council’s response to this issue of delaying the implementation of the closure by one year, they remain concerned about how the proposed phased closure arrangements would impact educationally on the pupils affected”.

East Renfrewshire council will now work with Holyrood in a bid to clarify the phased closure approach.

A spokesman told The Extra: “While we are disappointed in the decision by the Scottish government to call in our proposal to allow ministers more time for consideration prior to them reaching a decision, we fully understand that the complexities of this particular proposal perhaps make this inevitable.

“We now look forward to working with Scottish Ministers to clarify matters relating to the phased closure arrangements for Robslee Primary School as the next stage in the Schools (Consultation) (Scotland) Act 2010.

And agreeing with his fellow West of Scotland and Eastwood politicians Jackson Carlaw MSP praised the efforts of local activists and campaign groups.

He told The Extra: “The news is welcomed. There is, however, still a great deal of work to be done if we are to guarantee the future of both Robslee and its pupils.

“However this decision is a major breakthrough for Aileen Paterson and all the many activists who have been working tirelessly on behalf of the school.

“East Renfrewshire council should reconsider their proposals and all those who are concerned for Robslee must unite to ensure a positive future for the school”.