New city primary school proposal to replace St Thomas of Canterbury and Victoria County Infant schools

Feb 11 2010 by Jo Henwood, Chester Chronicle

New city primary school proposal to replace St Thomas of Canterbury and Victoria County Infant schools

CHESHIRE’S last remaining infant and junior schools could be amalgamated if parents and the local community approve plans.

Victoria County Infant School, Cheyney Road, and St Thomas of Canterbury CE Junior School, Walpole Street, could be closed and a new school built if approval is given by Secretary of State Ed Balls.

A spokesman for Cheshire West and Chester Council said: “We are at the starting blocks. The Secretary of State has to give approval under the competition rules for there to be a new school.

“If approval is given, we will then start the consultation process with parents, staff and governors.”

The chairman of governors of St Thomas’, Father Peter Walsh, said: “The governing bodies of both schools are very keen to amalgamate as long as it is supported by significant building work.

“We need a school which is fit for the 21st century and we are keen to see as much investment as possible. The process is quite complex but it is very important that we listen to parents and to the local community.”

David Hughes, chairman of governors at Victoria County Infant School, agrees with Fr Peter.

“Parents must be happy with the plan that goes forward,” he said.

According to Mr Hughes the budget required for the new build would be in the region of £6m.

The school would be a Church of England school voluntary aided by the Chester Blue Coat Church of England Educational Foundation.