Moray Council launches consultation on closing Crossroads Primary School near Keith
A local council has moved towards permanently closing a rural school which has been mothballed for nearly two years.
Moray Council has agreed to launch a consultation about shutting Crossroads Primary School near Keith.
The decision came nearly two years since the council closed the school’s doors after the total number of pupils dropped below 15.
Children attending the school, who placed padlocks on the school’s fence on the final day of teaching, were split between Keith and Rothiemay Primary Schools.
The current school roll at Crossroads Primary School is seven, with three parents having asked to enrol their children since the school was mothballed.
Moray Council is legally required to consult with the community before any final decision on permanent closure is made.
The decision to start the consultation, which will run until from Monday, September 23 and Friday, November 15, was made during a meeting of the education, children’s and leisure services committee today.
A parents’ meeting is planned for Monday, October 21 and a public meeting scheduled for Tuesday, October 22, with the location and time for both still to be confirmed.
An online meeting will also take place on Wednesday, October 23, if requested.
The consultation process must run for at least 30 days, during term time.
A council spokesperson encouraged anybody planning to join the meetings to email: learningestate@moray.gov.uk.
Consultation responses will be considered during another committee meeting in February 2025.
Committee chairperson Councillor Kathleen Robertson, said: “Thinking about closing a school is never easy, especially when it’s been an important part of our community.
“The consultation process will help us gather views from everyone affected so that we can make the right decision for the children and the community.
“I encourage everyone in the Crossroads area to get involved in the consultation and share their opinions.
“It’s important for us to hear from you and make sure your voice is the part of the decision-making process.”
Documents relating to the Crossroads Primary School closure consultation, including a link to the survey, will be available on the Moray Council website from Monday, September 23.
