A GOVERNING body may be set up for a controversial special school even before plans for the establishment have government approval. Blackburn with Darwen Council sparked a storm of protest when it announced the restructuring of special school arrangements in the borough.

After a review, the council decided to close Dame Evelyn Fox and Blackamoor Special Schools.

Parents and teachers opposed the move and formed a campaign group.

East Lancashire Health Authority also expressed concerns in an official report.

The closures will be offset by the creation of a new school for children with complex learning difficulties.

But the council needs government permission before it presses ahead.

A decision was expected in the New Year but now the government says an announcement will be made by the end of December.

A shadow board of governors has already been set up, with an equal number of representatives from Dame Evelyn Fox and Blackamoor.

But the shadow body has no powers and the council is keen to press ahead with its plans as soon as possible.

A new board of governors would have the power to appoint staff and make any important decisions.

The aim is to have a board in place ready for the government decision so it could start acting as soon as possible.

The decision on whether to create a new board will be taken when the council's education and training committee meets on Thursday.

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