School closure plans are deferred

Stoney Middleton has 21 pupils with places for 47

The fate of a small primary school in Derbyshire lies in the hands of an adjudicator after a local committee failed to reach a majority decision.

Derbyshire County Council wants to close the 21-pupil Stoney Middleton Primary in Hope, but some residents oppose the plans.

The local Schools' Organisation Committee was split on the matter at a meeting on Thursday.

The decision was referred to the Schools Adjudicator.

The school has 21 pupils, with places for 47. The council said it costs too much to educate each child.

Parents sent thousands of letters to the council and also submitted a report in protest against the closure saying it is a vital resource to the local community.

A final decision is expected within the next few months.