Last month I met with the head teacher at Rutlish School to discuss the open public footpath that runs right through the school grounds. This footpath runs between John Innes Recreation Ground and John Innes Park.
In 2012 there was a consultation on the path, from which the Council decided to keep the path open.
This decision is now being reviewed following representations from me, the school and recommendations from the police. Following my visit to the school last month I was astonished about the security issues that the path raises for the school and its pupils, especially following the bomb hoaxes earlier in the year.
The Council is consulting on a proposal to allow the school to close the gates at either end of the footpath during school hours. It is proposed that the gates would be closed between 8am and 5pm, Monday to Friday. They would only be closed during school term time and remain open at other times of the year.
I support these plans and have fed this into the consultation. I believe they provide a sensible balance between protecting the school, its students and staff, and giving easier access for local residents to the two local parks.
The consultation is open now, and closes on 25 July 2016. If this affects you please do have your say by clicking here.