Agenda item

To approve the issue of statutory notices on the proposal to increase the capacity of Ysgol Treferthyr to 150, relocating the school to an alternative site referred to as the A497 site, on 1 September 2023, in accordance with the requirements of Section 48 of the School Standards and Organisation (Wales) Act 2013.

The report was submitted by Cllr Cemlyn Williams

DECISION

To approve the issue of statutory notices to increase the capacity of Ysgol Treferthyr to 150, relocating the school to an alternative site referred to as the A497 site, on 1 September 2023, in accordance with the requirements of Section 48 of the School Standards and Organisation (Wales) Act 2013.

DISCUSSION

The report was submitted and the pleasure of being able to submit the item was noted. It was noted that this report highlighted the responses received following a public consultation on the proposal to increase the capacity of Ysgol Treferthyr and to relocate the school to an alternative site. It was emphasised that this scheme was in-keeping with the priorities of the department that were highlighted in the Gwynedd Education Plan.

The Education Officer highlighted the results of the consultation noting the main points. It was emphasised that the majority of responses were very supportive of the proposal and investment in Cricieth. The need for community use of the building was highlighted and it was noted that the department would collaborate with the community to offer them the best opportunity.

It was stated that the majority of observations raised concerns about the location. It was noted that the Department had looked carefully at the location and had undertaken detailed investigations before coming to a decision. It was emphasised that many observations noted concerns as it was located on a busy road and it was stated that the department would work to alleviate the traffic. It was elaborated on this noting that they would do this by examining the school's access. Attention was drawn to the lay-by near the site noting that the Highways Department was eager to retain this. It was emphasised that steps would be taken to ensure that the lay-by would not be used for the school.

Concerns were also noted regarding the trees on the site. It was stated that the department had no intention of felling any trees unnecessarily and that the School was eager to preserve the trees and use them in lessons at the school.

It was emphasised that positive responses had been received from pupils highlighting more space to play and larger classrooms. Nevertheless, it was noted that some pupils had highlighted that there would be more travelling distance to school. Attention was drawn to Estyn's response, which noted that they had no concerns and that the plan corresponded with the Council's Education Strategy.

Observations arising from the discussion

¾  The report was welcomed, emphasising the importance of seeing the pupils' responses. It was asked whether any adaptations had been considered for the building as a result of the Covid-19 crisis. It was noted that the design of the school had followed national guidelines but Covid-19 had highlighted the need to consider the ventilation system and access to classrooms. As a result of Covid-19, adaptations had been undertaken to ensure hand-washing stations near every access.

¾     It was stated that the observations received were interesting and that travelling had been highlighted as a concern. The need to ensure a safe mode of transport to school for children was noted and it was asked whether it would be possible to have a cycle path to assist with the impact on traffic. It was stated that the department was considering every possible method to ensure the safety of children on their way to school and that they would collaborate with the community to find a design that would be effective.