SECURITY fencing has been installed at one of Bolton’s outstanding schools after staff and pupils were put at risk by off-road bikers coming on to the grounds.
Canon Slade School in Bradshaw has be given a slice of £434million from the Government’s condition improvement fund to improve safeguarding and reduce anti-social behaviour last year.
And the school won the backing of Greater Manchester Police for the proposal to install a 2.4 metre high green weld mesh fencing and access gates within the school site following a spate of incidents.
Headteacher Karen Sudworth said: “As a school we appreciate that not everyone is in favour of the fencing. However, we need to prioritise the safety and wellbeing of our staff and students.
“Our staff and students have had to navigate and clear, broken glass, dog mess, drug paraphernalia, discarded cans and bottles before attempting to use the space for its intended purpose of school sport.
“Far too often they have been put at risk by quad bikers riding at them in a threatening and dangerous manner while they are using their own sports field.
“In addition, we have had to respond to the significant number of complaints for the local neighbourhood residents regarding the anti-social behaviour that our open fields incites during the evenings, weekends and school holidays.
“This move has been supported by the police and local councillors alike.”
She added: “The school playing fields has had a perimeter fence installed during the summer break, however, the public footpaths and rights of way will be maintained around the site for access from one side to the other.
“The wooded area at the bottom of our land will also remain open for access to walkers.”
There were three objections to the fencing, with one stating it would close off open space for youngsters to play on.
Mrs Sudworth said: "We have been put in an untenable position as a school, but we believe the fencing is best solution that safeguards our young people and addresses the concerns of local residents.”
Canon Slade School is part of the Bishop Fraser Trust, which includes St James CE High School and Bolton St Catherine’s Academy.
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