Final approval for plan to expand Ecclesall Infant School in Sheffield

The decision to increase the number of pupils from 180 to 630, made by Sheffield Council’s cabinet in July, was called in for scrutiny by Liberal Democrat and Green Party councillors.

Coun Steve Ayris asked for another full consultation into the proposal to increase school capacity in the area, to include both Ecclesall Infant School and Clifford CE Infant School.

Umberto Albarella, a parent of a child at Ecclesall CE Junior School, from where pupils will move to the expanded Infant school, also questioned the amount of consultation the council had carried out.

And resident Neil Fitzmorris raised concerns about schools’ role in the community. He said: “Schools reduce the quality of life for those who live near them.”

Council officers said a thorough consultation had been carried out, and cabinet member for children, young people and families Jackie Drayton said it was important to make a decision so places were available for children in 2019. The expansion was approved.

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