THE situation surrounding the building of schools in Swindon has been labelled as ‘absurd’ by the Labour Party.

With thousands of new homes set to be built over the coming years, it is believed there will be a need for three new secondary schools.

As it stands, two bids are being put together for free schools in Swindon but they are only likely to be successful if they receive a sufficient number of signatures in support of the proposals.

New College is behind a bid in the north of the town, while the Diocese of Bristol is looking to put a school in an area yet to be decided, though the Diocese has expressed an interest in a central location.

However, this week a warning went out that if each bid fails to get 750 signatures from parents supporting it, then the government may not provide the necessary funding.

Councillor Cindy Matthews (Lab, Lydiard and Freshbrook), the shadow member for education, believes local authorities should not have to rely on the gathering of signatures if there is such strong evidence for a school.

She said: “It is an absurd situation where the free school bids appear to be the only viable option. Swindon is growing at an astonishing rate and we will need one, if not two very quickly.

“Local authorities have a responsibility to provide a school place for every child but they can’t get the funds.

“Instead they have no choice but to go with these free bids, some of which do not have a great track record as we have seen despite the government overspending on them.

“When there is a clear need for secondary schools, as can be seen here, it should be that local authorities are able to go and speak directly with the government, show there is a need and get funds that way.”

Coun Mathews wants parents to offer their support to the two school bids but says it is vital they go in areas where the need for places is greatest.

She said: “I don’t think there is much doubt that one is needed in North Swindon as they are facing a real shortage of places in a few years.

“Where we are also seeing a shortage in places over the coming years is central Swindon, as the primary schools there are already under pressure.

“There is talk that the second bid may be located in Wichelstowe but for me there is far more need in the town centre at this point.”

To find out more information about either bid or how to sign up to the bids visit www.newschoolfornorthswindon.org or www.newtown. academy.