Archive - Thursday, 2 May 2002


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Buildings crumble

PENARTH'S crumbling and decrepit schools need over £20 million to stop them falling further into disrepair.

A survey has revealed that nearly all sites in the Vale require a massive cash injection to bring them back to a satisfactory state.

One local school, which did not wish to be named, said it has struggled to maintain their high standard of education in poor working conditions.

A teacher said: "We know that the Vale schools work on a priority list for repairs, and it could be years before much-needed work is done."

These views have been echoed by Plaid Cymru councillors who describe themselves as 'very alarmed' at the level of repairs outstanding.

Cllr Nic Hodges said: "It's no secret that parents, teachers, councillors and school governors are well aware that investments in school buildings have been inadequate for a number of years."

Leader cllr Chris Franks added: "I do not think that our children should have to continue to put up with these problems.

"I do hope that the Vale council and the Government can work together to find the proper level of funds to speed up the backlog of repairs."

In response, Vale of Glamorgan leader Jeff James said a report on the matter would be considered by the council following the completion of condition surveys of all school buildings.

He said: "The Welsh Assembly Government's objective is for all education accommodation to be 'fit for purpose' by 2010.

"But at this point in time, the council has not been allocated additional funding at a level which will enable essential work detailed in the condition surveys to be undertaken."