MP backs rebuild

The MP has asked the local education authority to "reconsider as a matter of urgency" the proposal to close the school which was badly damaged by fire in November 2000.

Mr Hunter's intervention adds further weight to the campaign to rebuild Beech Down and puts more pressure on Hampshire education chief Don Allen to reverse the closure decision.

Mr Hunter told The Basingstoke Extra: "I was profoundly concerned to learn of this decision. I firmly believe that is in the interests of the people of Brighton Hill for the school to be rebuilt.

"Before the decision was reached, I urged the county to rebuild and I am disappointed that they have decided otherwise.

"Beech Down school is a good school. It is popular. It has triumphed over disaster. It deserves to continue in its own right.

"But there is an even wider argument. Schools are more than just bricks and mortar and places where children learn. They are focal points of communities, and the community of Brighton Hill has suffered in recent years.

"In some key respects, Brighton Hill has been neglected. This is exemplified by the extent to which the shopping centre has been allowed to deteriorate by a 'rationalised' bus service and by the prolonged absence of a supermarket.

"Beech Down has been a beacon of light against what is, to some extent, a gloomy backdrop."

The governors of Beech Down Primary School this week vowed to appeal against the controversial decision to close the school in 2004.

Cllr Allen, Hampshire County Council's executive member for education, is due to explain his decision to a county council scrutiny committee next Tuesday.

While members of the committee can question Cllr Allen, they have no power to overturn his decision. This can be done only through the independent schools organisation committee which will consider any objections lodged to statutory notices on the closure.