The Birkenshaw Group (all Tory activists), who want an unnecessary so-called “free” high school in Birkenshaw, have been told that they CANNOT consider having a school in 2012.

This decision by the Government is a major blow to the Group who have been campaigning hard for a 2012 date. This decision also calls into question the validity of their so-called consultation which clearly stated an opening date of 2012.

The Government have said the Group MAY be able to open a school in 2013. This will depend on them having a site that is available well before that date so that building work can take place. It will also, crucially, depend on the amount of funding that is available.

I am sure there will be a public outcry in Kirklees if the Government grants funding for this unnecessary school when there is an £80 million backlog of repairs needed for all other Kirklees schools.