Labour demands new school for Brixton

Tessa Jowell backing a new school for Brixton in Shakespeare Road

Local MP Tessa Jowell has given her backing to a new school for Brixton on Shakespeare Road. Speaking at a visit to the site this Friday, Tessa spoke of her frustration with the inaction of Lambeth council’s Liberal Democrat Administration. Along with local Labour Councillors and parents campaigner, Devon Allison, she was given a tour and a briefing on the site by Lambeth Council Officers.

Currently 600 year 6 children are leaving school in Brixton every year without a local secondary school to attend. Proposals for a new school in Brixton have been backed by government money for construction and have strong local community support. The only missing ingredient is a site provided by Lambeth Council.

The Council has just received a £27 million windfall payment, and so they have more than enough money available to make the necessary changes to the site to for it to be used for a school

Tessa Jowell commented: -

“The need for decisions now is urgent. I have written to the Leader of Lambeth Council asking that there be an end to the current uncertainty. The Council must take a decision on Shakespeare Road and enter into negotiations for the acquisition of areas of the site which are not owned by the council”

Devon Allison from the Secondary School for Lambeth campaign (SSCIL) commented:

“It is time for the council to prioritise and put the children first.”

Cllr Steve Reed, Leader of the Labour Opposition in Lambeth commented:

“We’ve had more than enough of the council dragging its heels on this crucial issue for Brixton. The Lib Dems must act now and move ahead with the Shakespeare Road Site.”


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