Proposals by the Leigh Academy Trust to merge Stoke Primary Academy and Allhallows Primary Academy have caused concern for parents and pupils.

Medway Labour Councillors are opposing the proposals due to the negative impact the merger will have on the rural community.

Cllr Clive Johnson, Councillor for Gillingham South and Medway Labour and Co-operative Group Spokesperson for Children and Young People said, ‘I’m concerned that the proposal to merge Stoke and Allhallows primary schools is purely a financial one that will benefit the Academy trust at the expense of the pupils and the community.

‘Rural communities are already under threat from a lack of investment, the loss of children’s centres, and the loss of community assets that contribute to community resilience and empowerment. A local school is the heart of a rural community and central to its identity and long-term health.

‘Medway Labour & Co-operative Group are concerned that the decision could be short sighted and are calling for a much longer and more engaging consultation period. The consultation must take into account the plans for future of development on the peninsula, and therefore the potential for higher demand for primary school places in the area due to an increased population.’

Cllr Stephen Hubbard, Councillor for Strood North and Medway Council Children and Young People Overview and Scrutiny Committee member said, ‘As a councillor with relatives who live in the area affected by this proposal, I know how important it is to get this decision right.

‘The villages are widespread and the road to the proposed merged school is narrow, exposed and without a footpath. There may be only 1.4 miles between the two schools, but it is a route you would not want to walk, especially with a young child.

‘Some children will have three miles to travel. I am really worried, too, about the about the future for the Stoke school site and its loss to the community.’