Teachers and governors at Stamford Park Primary School in Hale, Greater Manchester, are sounding the alarm over the deteriorating condition of their Grade II-listed building. They warn that without immediate repairs, the school could face severe structural issues, jeopardizing the safety and education of its students.
Key Takeaways
- Stamford Park Primary School requires between £3 million and £4 million in repairs.
- The school, built in 1905, is the only Grade II-listed building in the area.
- Trafford Council is facing challenges in securing funding for the necessary repairs.
- Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham is exploring solutions but lacks a specific budget for capital repairs.
The school, which has been a cornerstone of the community since its establishment, is now at risk of crumbling due to a lack of funding for essential repairs. Teachers and school leaders have expressed their frustration, stating that their needs are being overlooked despite the building's historical significance.
The Condition of the School
Stamford Park Primary School, designed by architect Henry Lord, has been recognized for its historical value since it was granted listed status by Historic England in February 2020. However, the building's age has led to significant wear and tear, with many original features now in a state of disrepair.
Key issues include:
- A leaking roof
- Peeling walls
- General degradation of the building fabric
Headteacher Sarah Price emphasized the importance of maintaining the school's heritage while ensuring it remains a safe and inspiring environment for students. She noted that the current state of the building is not only a health and safety concern but also affects the school's appeal to prospective parents and students.
Funding Challenges
Trafford Council has acknowledged the complexity of the situation, stating that it has an annual budget of approximately £2.6 million to maintain 39 schools in the area. This limited budget makes it challenging to allocate sufficient funds for the urgent repairs needed at Stamford Park.
Mayor Andy Burnham has indicated that while there is no specific budget for capital repairs, he is willing to convene relevant stakeholders to find a solution. However, the lack of immediate funding raises concerns about the future of the school and its ability to provide a safe learning environment.
The Importance of Action
The Department for Education has committed to increasing national investment in school buildings to £2.1 billion, aiming to improve conditions and support educational priorities. However, local leaders stress that immediate action is necessary to address the specific needs of Stamford Park Primary School.
As the situation unfolds, the community is left hoping for a swift resolution to ensure that this historic school can continue to serve its students for generations to come. The teachers and governors remain dedicated to preserving the school's legacy while advocating for the necessary repairs to safeguard the future of their students.
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