Proposals for a new primary school at Rhyl

Dec 3 2008 by Staff Reporter, Denbigh Visitor

PLANS to build a new primary school in Rhyl have been welcomed, although the site earmarked for the development is not considered to be ideal.

As part of a consultation to improve education in Denbighshire, the authority is discussing using Tynewydd Road field for the new school.

It was immensely popular with children and families, as well as local soccer and rugby teams, until it was closed off to the public almost two years ago.

The grass has not been cut since, white lines have not been painted and goalposts were not erected at the beginning of the new football season, to the anger of neighbouring residents.

However the council is now deliberating whether to build a primary school at the location, which is less than half a mile from Rhyl High School and the primary Ysgol Bryn Hedydd.

“The current situation regarding the land off Tynewydd Road is that it is owned by the council and vested under the control of the Lifelong Learning Directorate,” said a spokesman for Denbighshire County Council.

“It is not in use by any school at the present time. However, we are currently involved in the Modernising Education debate.

“Until such time as firm proposals evolve the authority would not wish to dispose of the site or relinquish it on a long-term lease.

“The provision of a new school in Rhyl is one of a number of possible options but at the present time there are no firm proposals.”

A spokeswoman for Denbighshire’s education department confirmed the consultation process would be completed on December 16.

Ysgol Bryn Hedydd headteacher Philip Gallagher said it would be “strange” to have a school so close, but would not comment further.

Vale of Clwyd MP Chris Ruane said: he is pleased that Denbighshire recognises the need for a new primary school in Rhyl. “However, I would not advocate building on these playing fields,” he added.

“These fields should be brought back into use so we can encourage youngsters to take part in more sporting activity,” Mr Ruane added.

Rhyl councillor Brian Blakeley said: “There is a need for a new school in the south east of Rhyl and it has been discussed for this site but I feel it’s unsuitable. And where is the money going to come from to pay for it?”