Janet Finch-Saunders, Member of the Welsh Parliament for Bangor, Conwy and Môn, has expressed her concerns following the decision by Conwy County Borough Council’s Cabinet to approve the proposal to discontinue Ysgol Ysbyty Ifan and Ysgol Betws-y-Coed.
As a result of this decision, the schools will close with effect from 31 August 2027. The Council has stated that it will work closely with the schools, governors, staff and families throughout the process and will support transition arrangements to ensure that suitable school places are available from 1 September 2027.
Janet commented:
“The decision to proceed with the closure of Ysgol Ysbyty Ifan and Ysgol Betws-y-Coed is deeply concerning and will have a significant impact on the communities, staff and pupils at both schools. I am also surprised that Plaid Cymru are supporting these closures as will have an impact on the use of the Welsh language in the area.
Janet continued:
“We cannot afford to lose our schools, particularly in rural areas. These closures will result in pupils losing their support networks and facing journeys of up to 30 minutes to school every day.
Janet added:
“I am also deeply concerned about the lack of correspondence I have received from Council Leader Julie Fallon regarding the closure of Ysgol Betws-y-Coed. As I feel that the Cabinet have not listened to many parents or the key points raised in the consultation process.
“It is beggars belief that the school will close after £700,000 was spent on renovating the building, and I will be watching with interest at what becomes of this important site. This is really a retrograde step for the parents, children and community of Betws-y-Coed.
“Where other schools have closed in other parts of Wales, there has been no evidence that it has resulted in significant budget savings.”
“I am calling on the Council’s Cabinet to reverse this devastating decision.”
ENDS
Photo: Janet Finch-Saunders MS/AS
