Council backs down on massive fee hike for Eastlands Primary School

Eastlands Primary School does not have its own sports field and has to negotiate with Rugby Borough Council to use Winfield Recreation Ground. The Council wanted to charge them a staggering £464 each year to continue to use the grounds.

The school contacted Cllr Neil Sandison (Lib Dem, Eastlands). He said "Physical education is very important for primary school children to remain healthy and not become obese or suffer health problems in later life" . The Council's charging policy seemed to be counter-productive since the Council says it has been promoting active play and exercise for young people.

Following a meeting arranged by Cllr Neil Sandison between the school and Council staff the council has now backed down on the £464 annual fee on the basis that the school does not have exclusive use of the field. The school will now only have to pay £50for the licence. Cllr Neil Sandison said "I am glad common sense has now prevailed and the council has withdrawn this ridiculous charge. I hope we can promote more outdoor learning activities for the children now that this has been resolved so that Eastland's pupils can fully benefit from the open space at Winfield Rec".