Resolved – That

(1) the outcome of phase 1 of the Pupil Place Planning review regarding small planning areas: Beechwood, Central Birkenhead, North Birkenhead, South Birkenhead, Noctorum and Prenton as outlined in the Findings report attached at appendix 1 be noted.

(2) recommendation 1 that the Diocese of Shrewsbury decommission existing teaching space in St Anne’s Primary School and repurpose for alternative use to reduce the overall capacity of the school be approved.

(3) recommendation 2 that in principle agreement is given for the establishment of a new school in the small planning area of North Birkenhead to meet the demand for new school places over the next 15 years be approved. This will be the subject of future reports for members consideration as more details are developed.

(4) recommendation 3 to reduce Pupil Admission Numbers at St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School as agreed by the Diocese of Shrewsbury and Holy Family Multi Academy Trust (MAT) be approved.

(5) recommendation 4 to reduce Pupil Admission Numbers at Christchurch Church of England (CE) Birkenhead as agreed by the Diocese of Chester be approved.

(6) recommendation 5 relating to Woodchurch Road Primary as outlined in the report ‘Admission arrangements for community and voluntary controlled primary and secondary schools and the co-ordinated admission schemes for 2023-24’ as considered and approved by the Children, Young People and Education Committee at its meeting 31 January 2022 be noted.

(7) a formal consultation on recommendation 6 regarding the amalgamation of St Peter’s Catholic Primary School and St Paul’s Catholic Primary School be undertaken. This would involve closure of both schools and opening of a new combined school on one site. Pupils from both schools would be guaranteed a place at the single school.

(8) a formal consultation on recommendation 7 regarding the amalgamation of Manor Primary and Hillside Primary commencing 9th May 2022 be undertaken. This would involve closure of both schools and opening of a new combined school on one site. Pupils from both schools would be guaranteed a place at the single school. In line with statutory guidance, this recommendation requires a formal consultation.