HARRIS FREE SCHOOL

The land identified for the new free school has been sold to Procter & Gamble for the expansion of their production facilities.  This is obviously great news for the local economy, but in the absence of a secured site for the school, Harris is left with no choice but to defer opening to 2016.

This will be of great disappointment to the parents of the 85 children who have been offered places this September.  These children are the immediate priority and we must make sure that they are all awarded suitable alternative places.

It remains the case that the department and Harris are committed to delivering the school.  An alternative site has been identified which belongs to the Council, and there are other alternatives too which are being explored.  Sadly though, the land deal fell through too late in the day to firm up any of these other options.

So far two new free schools have been delivered: Gateway in Tilbury and Harris Academy Mayflower.  It is unfortunate that we have lost out on the land to make this third school happen this year.  We will deliver this school, just as we have the previous two. 

Labour oppose free schools.  I have led free school campaigns to deliver more school places and real choice to parents in Thurrock.  Parents in Chafford may wish to reflect that this school will be delivered if the Conservatives are re-elected. Labour will simply cancel it.

ENDS

Jackie Doyle Price

Members of Parliament for Thurrock