The fight to save Carlton school: ‘Some have given up the struggle. I urge you not to’

• ANOTHER week and two more pseudo consultations from Camden Council.

Unfortunately the published statutory notice to close Carlton school does not make it clear that a paper copy can be obtained.

Similarly the council seems to be unaware that an estimated 25 per cent of our community do not have appropriate access to the web where the documents are available.

I understand copies of the notice have been displayed outside the school. Visiting there would not, I suggest, be counted as an essential reason for leaving one’s home.

Meanwhile a council “working group” has been set up to (?) oversee the merger, even though no formal final decision can yet be taken to close the school at this point.

This group consists of 13 people, of whom eight are council officers and two are councillors. The (?) self-appointed chair of the group states he has the “discretion” to invite other members.

Two of the council officers are from the BAME community. The terms of reference state: “The business of the group is confidential”.

How can this group “represent” our community? Stage one consultation with the BAME communities was fatally flawed and seen by some to be racist.

The council also ignored the votes of 120 parents, of whom 90 per cent wanted a delay given the impact of the pandemic. Our area has the second highest Covid-19 infection in the borough.

Some have given up the struggle. I urge you not to.

Write to the council (Education Commissioning) at the Town Hall, WC1H 9JE or call 020 7974 4072 to get a written copy of the proposals. Then send in your views, especially about the consultation.

Closing date February 18. Details for those with web access can be found on the council website.

MICK FARRANT,
NW5