Councillors back parents over threatened Brora nursery
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Sutherland councillors have reassured local parents that they are in favour of keeping the Highland Council-run Brora nursery open.
The nursery, which is registered to care for up to 20 three to five year olds is under threat of closure as Highland Council reviews its provision for under fives locally.
Education officials are suggesting that the nursery be transferred, under a service level agreement, to the nearby private children’s day care centre Sutherland Stepping Stones, which is run by the Care and Learning Alliance (CALA).
It is claimed that the move, which is being opposed by local parents, is not a cost-cutting measure but will create a more streamlined and “effective” service.
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However, at a recent meeting at Brora Primary School, Education Officer Ian Jackson stressed that no decision had been taken and that the outcome of the review would not be made public until May - the Education Committee meets on May 30.
Brora Community Council organised a meeting with East Sutherland and Edderton ward councillors Richard Gale, Jim McGillivray and Leslie-Ann Niven last Wednesday night to discuss the issue. Parents and community members were also present.
Cllr Richard Gale, chairman of Sutherland County Committee, said: “What we took away from the meeting with officers was the strength of feeling from everyone present to maintain the status quo. We need to wait for the recommendation.”
Cllr McGillivray said: “Highland Council has closed five Sutherland primary schools in as many years and there are always cost implications. Last Thursday the Education Committee moved to close a further two primary schools in Newtonmore and Skye so it is closures all round at the moment.”
The councillors said they would continue to remind officials of the strong feelings in the community to keep the nursery.
