A campaign by the Liberal Democrats to provide extra school places for children in Alexandra ward has ended in success. Since last year local Liberal Democrats have pressed Haringey Council to hold a consultation on whether to expand Rhodes Avenue Primary School. Last night Haringey Council finally agreed. Liberal Democrats have welcomed the plan but have criticised Haringey Council for taking so long.

In May 2007 Cllr Engert revealed a shocking primary school place ‘black hole’ which showed that out of the 110 children in Haringey that did not receive any of their four school preferences for a reception place 25 came from Alexandra ward.

Cllr Gail Engert, Liberal Democrat Children, Schools and Families spokesperson commented:

“This consultation on whether to expand is long overdue. The Liberal Democrats have tirelessly campaigned to get more school places for residents and now this work has paid off.

“If expansion were to happen, this would unfortunately not be till 2011 – too late for many families.”

Cllr Susan Oatway (Alexandra ward) added:

“This is great news. I have been contacted many times by residents in dire need of a primary school place close to where they live hopefully now with the prospect of an expanded Rhodes Avenue, children in Alexandra ward can benefit.”