HC Deb 29 January 1986 vol 90 cc939-40
6. Mr. Norman Hogg

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what criteria he applies in determining the provision of new schools to serve developing areas; and what criteria are used by regional authorities when school closures are proposed.

Mr. Allan Stewart

In determining capital allocations, priority is given to projects designed to provide additional places in areas where the school population is growing and there is insufficient accommodation, and to rationalisation proposals. The criteria for most school closures are determined by education authorities without reference to my right hon. and learned Friend.

Mr. Norman Hogg

Is the Minister aware that there is a crying need for a new school in the developing area of Balloch/Eastfield in my constituency? Is he further aware that the policy he has just mentioned means that a new school will be built only if another school closes, possibly Seafar primary school? Will the Minister see to it that Strathclyde regional council is given sufficient funds to build a new school and maintain the existing primary school provision throughout Cumbernauld and Kilsyth?

Mr. Stewart

There is substantial overprovision of primary places in Cumbernauld, and simply to add a primary school at Balloch-Eastfield would worsen that problem. That would be bad educationally and a waste of resources. As part of a process of rationalisation, the capital allocation for education authorities shortly to be announced will include provision for a new primary school at Balloch-Eastfield. Work on that school will start next year.

Mrs. McCurley

Does my hon. Friend agree that in my constituency, in the greatly expanding village of Houston, there is a legitimate demand for extra school places and additional school building? That is a highly rated area. It is extremely dangerous for some of the children to travel the miles expected of them to the nearest school.

Mr. Stewart

I note with interest and sympathy what my hon. Friend has said. As she will appreciate, proposals have to come through Strathclyde region to the Scottish Office, but I shall investigate the up-to-date position on Houston.