Talks continue over Burnley High School site

The Chapel Street School’s Trust revealed the former Habergham High building in Bryon Street would be the “preferred site”.

But directors of the Burnley High School bid say this could still be subject to change.

Talks are continuing between the Department for Education and Lancashire County Council but an agreement has yet to be secured.

Russell Rook, CEO of Chapel St, said: “We’re disappointed that negotiations, to this point, have not been as successful as we’d have liked.

“As a result, a statutory process has begun between the Department for Education and Lancashire County Council to secure the former Habergham High School for the new free school.

“Here at Chapel St we remain totally committed to serving the many local families and residents who have supported and are contributing to the creation of Burnley High School and have every confidence that this issue will be resolved and the school will open as planned in September 2014.”

Plans for the “Christian ethos” school had been outlined to 100 parents during a meeting last week.

The school is offering 90 places for Year 7 students starting in September but there are plans to educate 450 high school pupils and a further 200 students at a sixth form centre.

The plans have brought mixed reaction from leaders in the town. Council Leader Julie Cooper said it would take funds away from other high schools in the town but Burnley MP Gordon Birtwistle believes it will offer more choice for parents.