Why is Ysgol Bro Cynllaith now considered in a separate proposal?

This follows the decision taken by the cabinet to press ahead with the closure process for another two rural schools.

At their meeting on Thursday, March 18, Powys County Council cabinet went back to look at proposals to reorganise the Llanfyllin catchment area.

Cabinet member approved to start the statutory process that leads to closure for both Llanfechain and Llangedwyn Church in Wales primary schools.

It had been expected to see a proposal to close Ysgol Bro Cynllaith in Llansilin, also discussed as part of this package.

Back in September, Bro Cynllaith was grouped with Llanfechain and Llangedwyn.

But now proposals for Bro Cynllaith are expected to be completed after Easter.

Opposition group leaders, Cllr Elwyn Vaughan (Plaid Cymru) Mathew Dorrance (Labour), James Gibson-Watt (Liberal Democrat and Green group), Jeremy Pugh (Action for Powys), and Liam Fitzpatrick (New Powys) issued a joint statement questioning why the proposals for school reconfiguration around Llanfyllin had changed.

Plaid Cymru group leader, Cllr Elwyn Vaughan spoke on behalf of the opposition leaders, he said: “What has changed since the preferred way forward was agreed?

“It seems clear from the original cabinet paper on September 29, that the reason Bro Cynllaith was identified for possible closure were the same as the reasons for identifying Llangedwyn and Llanfechain.

“Whilst we are not advocating closure of any of them as such, we would like to understand why the position has changed in respect of Bro Cynllaith?

“In order to gain the trust of communities with these important discussions surrounding their schools, it is imperative that Powys is open and transparent and consistent in it’s approach.”

Education portfolio holder, Councillor Phyl Davies, said that what had been approved in September was a “preferred way forward for the area”.

Cllr Davies said: “Further detailed assessment of all options is now required in order to develop proposals and plans that can be formally consulted upon.

“Given the substantial work involved, we have decided to take the programme forward on a phased basis.

“The first phase of the programme focused on Church in Wales primary schools in the area and Cabinet are considering a report this week.

“The second phase will be the development and consideration of options for Ysgol Bro Cynllaith, Ysgol Gynradd Pennant and Ysgol Gynradd Llanrhaeadr-ym-Mochnant.

“It is expected that will be completed shortly after Easter 2021.”