Christina McKelvie MSP today welcomed the unanimous support in Parliament for SNP legislation protecting Scotland’s schools.

The Schools Consultation bill – which passed today – places more stringent requirements on Councils looking to close schools.

Councils now have to explain educational benefits from closure proposals, consult for set periods of time and individuals and communities can also request that the Government calls in any decision to close a school.

During the debate, Ms McKelvie, who is a member of Holyrood’s Education Committee, said that the bill’s requirement for local authorities to prove the educational benefits of any school closure proposal would help councillors to crystalise their thoughts about educational provision in their areas.

Speaking after today’s vote, Ms McKelvie said:
“This legislation will bring extra protection to schools of all kinds across the country.

“For too long the balance of power between parents and councils when it comes to school closures has been off kilter.

“With this legislation councils proposing closures have a new set of obligations to live up to that will ensure the views of parents, children and communities are taken into account.

“I also believe the process of forcing councillors to consider the educational benefits of any closure proposal will help to stimulate further thinking about improving local education provision.

“Today’s bill sees the SNP fulfil a key manifesto commitment and deliver a better future for Scotland’s school communities.”