Vandalism problem at empty special schools

Following the Re-organisation of special schools in the Rochdale borough five former special school buildings now stand empty and these have become a target for young vandals according to Councillor Jane Gartside. She highlighted some of the problems at one of the buildings in her Bamford Ward at a full Council meeting.

Speaking about the former High Birch school building on Marland Fold, which closed for good last week, Councillor Gartside said: "Residents can not cope with young people going on the grounds and causing mayhem. The police need to increase their patrols of the area and the Council needs to make progress on the issue of what is to be done with these buildings.

"Vandalism could be an increasing problem at High Birch with the building left empty and unattended and I would imagine that it is going to be a problem in the other empty special school buildings aswell.

"I want to know what the future of these buildings will be."

Councillor Irene Davidson, Cabinet portfolio holder for children, schools and families, said the Council was looking into the future of the buildings and that she would keep Councillor Gartside informed of any proposals and of any meetings that may be arranged to discuss the issue.

Other empty special schools that could be affected are Birtle View, Innes, Alderman Kay and Rydings.

Pupils will begin schooling at purpose-built new buildings when schooling begins in September. Primary aged pupils will attend either Springside, which is co-located with Hamer Primary School in Rochdale or Newlands, co-located with Hollin Primary School, in Middleton. Secondary-aged pupils will attend Redwood Secondary School, which is co-located with Oulder Hill Specialist Language College.

Councillor Davidson said: "The re-organisation enables us to provide the best facilities for pupils who require specialist provision together with opportunities for these children to be fully included in mainstream school communities. Provision for each child will be determined by their individual needs."