It’s time to speak out

Sir, – I wish to add my voice to the many others being raised in support of the new Madras at Pipelands, following the unbelievable 7-6 vote by councillors lastThursday.

I strongly advise them to think carefully before the full vote onApril 3 and to visit the current Madras sites to see the sub-standard conditions for themselves. Also, they need to talk to their constituents and remember that they represent the people of Fife, not their own private agendas.

I would remind them there is no alternative site being offered with acceptable conditions. The very “unsuitable” pond site is only available by a straight swap with the university, which they have made very clear is non-negotiable.

The university obviously thinks exchanging a site worth £250,000 for Madras South Street –worth £5 million – a fair exchange. Something so ludicrous it makes you feel they are holding out for something they feel they can get.

The argument against Pipelands is that it is green belt. In normal circumstances I would be fully supportive of this but considering what has gone before, this is now irrelevant. We need a school and we need it soon.

Our children’s education is suffering and this is the quickest way forward with a solution that gives us our school of the future. If we were part of some urban conurbation, the greenbelt debate might hold more sway but we are talking about rural Fife.

It is time for the pupils and parents of Fife to speak out and say what’s wanted and needed – a new Madras at Pipelands. Sarah McCowan. Newport.