ONE of Blackpool's three special schools could be closed following a review of special education provision by Blackpool Borough Council.

The fate of Woodlands, Park and Highfurlong School, pictured here, was to be decided at a meeting of the Education and Cultural Services Policy Review Committee on February 21.

It could be decided that one school be shut in favour of a two-school model in the light of falling numbers of children attending special schools. This could mean that more disabled children are included in mainstream schools.

The other option would be to maintain the three schools and monitor them closely with a view to a future decision.

Councillor Eddie Collett, executive member for education, said today's meeting would decide on one of these courses of action. "We have been reviewing special education needs for three years and it is now time to act.

"If we do take the first option, we will have a formal investigation into the feasibility of closing one school." This could mean that one of the school buildings would close, but the name may be used at another school, effectively merging the two.

Coun Collett said: "Currently, mainstream education is not an option for some youngsters with special needs but we need to develop specialist provision in mainstream schools so that those who can and want to be educated in primary and secondary schools have that choice." If the study shows a closure is feasible, it would then go before the council's executive committee.

Coun Collett was keen to stress the plans are not a cost-cutting exercise. "This is absolutely not about saving money. In fact it would cost the council more money to invest in developments to our service. The primary motivation is what is best for disabled children in Blackpool."

But Howard Robinson from the Friends of Highfurlong group said: "We believe the council has made up its mind to shut one school already and without proper consideration. We would like to see a full risk assessment from an educational, social and health and safety point of view before any decision is made. If pupil numbers are dropping the council should look at ways to increase the numbers, not close schools down.

"They say it is not about saving money but we feel they have been discouraging people from coming here so a closure would become a self-fulfilling prophecy -- we are determined not to let that happen."