FORMAL consultation on the closure of two small Powys schools will start later this year if plans are approved by Powys County Council’s cabinet.

The cabinet meeting in Llandrindod Wells next Tuesday (January 26) will be asked to approve consultation on the closure of Llanbister CP School and Llanfihangel Rhydithon CP School, Dolau from December 31, 2016.

Cabinet Member for Education, Councillor Arwel Jones said: “Both schools have been subject to a full review under the council’ schools transformation policy which triggers work if certain criteria including pupil numbers, surplus capacity, cost, condition of buildings or performance are a concern.

“Both schools have had less than 50 pupils for more than three years, and currently have less than 40 pupils.

“Recommending consultation on the closure of any school is not easy but the council has a duty to ensure that Powys youngsters have access to the best possible learning opportunities. That is only possible if the county has a fit-for-purpose school structure that is financially and educationally sound. Financial analysis estimate that annual savings of £68,485 will be achieved at Llanbister and £69,078 at Llanfihangel Rhydithon.

“The council has named Crossgates Primary School as the receiving school for pupils from both schools,” he added.

Full report and reaction in this week’s Express, on sale Wednesday