The announcement by Education Minister John O’Dowd that he is close the Woodlands Language Unit at Belmont Special Needs School in Derry has been described as “appalling” by Derry SDLP MLA Pat Ramsey.
The closure is a result of a decision by Mr O’Dowd to give the go-ahead for Belmont Houae to amalgamate with Foyleview School.
Mr O’Dowd said he took the decision after “very careful consideration” of all aspects of the proposals.
He also said in taking the decision he was aware of the “significant” level of opposition to the closure of Belmont House.
He added: “The amalgamation will be supported by an investment in excess of £7.5million. In making my decision I was mindful that there has been a significant level of opposition to the closure of Belmont House. However, I must consider the long-term interests of the children. Having examined the proposal I am satisfied that the amalgamation will provide a more sustainable school and meet the needs of the children more effectively.”
The Minister said he had received assurances the service would not be diluted in any way, class sizes would not increased and pupils would only be placed in appropriate class groupings according to their needs on the spectrum.
He concluded: “I wish all those associated with the new school every success for the future.”
Mr Ramsey said he was “appalled” by the decision.
He said young people to attend Belmont House would now miss out on the “fantastic facility and staff.”
He addedthe decision had left parents’ “devastated” and many people “upset.”
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