HC Deb 21 November 1978 vol 958 cc573-5W
Mr. Madden

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services (1) who is responsible for taking any final decision to close Dobroyd Castle community school; what consideration is being given to possible alternative uses of the school; if he will list the alternative uses which are being considered; and if he will undertake to make a full statement at the earliest opportunity;

(2) what consultation, involving officials of his Department, and others, has taken place in connection with any proposal to close Dobroyd Castle community school at Todmorden; how many places have been available at this school since his Department assumed responsibility for it; how many pupils are attending at present, and what are the latest forecasts for future provision.

Mr. Moyle

The decision to close Dobroyd Castle community home is a matter for Calderdale metropolitan district council in consultation with the Yorkshire and Humberside children's regional planning committee. The committee must seek the approval of the Secretary of State to delete the home from the regional plan. There have been informal discussions between the authorities and my Department. I have not yet, however, received such an application. I shall wish to be satisfied that the regional plan makes proper provision for the children affected by the plan's amendment.

Any alternative uses to which the premises may be put are a matter for the Calderdale metropolitan district council.

When the Department assumed responsibility for these services on 1st January 1971 there were 71 places at Dobroyd Castle. Calderdale metropolitan district council in consultation with the children's regional planning committee reduced the number to 58 places in 1977. I understand there were 39 boys in residence on 3rd November 1978.

Mr. Madden

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he is satisfied with the reasons given by certain local authorities in Yorkshire and Humberside for withdrawing from pooling arrangements which have helped to finance Dobroyd Castle community school at Todmordon; and what consultation occurred with his Department before local authorities took their decision.

Mr. Moyle

Pooling arrangements for sharing costs of community homes are a matter for the local authorities concerned. I am aware that some local authorities in Yorkshire and Humberside children's regional planning committee have given notice of their withdrawal from the regional agreement but there is no requirement on them to consult the Department.