Pontyates villagers vow to continue fight to save school
The school is one of four earmarked for closure by December 2026 under the council’s modernisation plans. A last‑minute decision means Pontyates is likely to be excluded from the immediate process, but campaigners insist the threat remains and uncertainty continues.
At a public meeting last week, villagers agreed to press ahead with their campaign.
A spokesperson said:
Parents and villagers packed into the public meeting in Pontyates, facing the governors as they voiced opposition to Carmarthenshire Council’s consultation on school closures.“Of course it is a relief to hear that the consultation process is unlikely to proceed in the case of Ysgol Pontyates, but the anxiety and uncertainty will continue. There is no clarity as to how long the delay will be. For the benefit of the children and staff we must continue to fight, demand fairness for our families and our community, and ensure a future for a school – which has just celebrated its hundred and fifty years – for generations to come.”
Campaigners accused the council of rushing plans “in a thoughtless and unnecessary manner” and described the consultation process as “fickle and inadequate.” They also raised concerns about the financial management of the county’s schools, pointing to a forecast overspend of £9 million.
The spokesperson added:
“This is nothing short of small village schools paying the price for others’ profligacy, because of a clear and unfounded prejudice against them.”
Parents also highlighted the impact on children, warning that closures would mean upheaval and long journeys to larger schools.
One pupil said:
“Our school is small but it is very special. We all know each other… We learn everything in Welsh and we are very proud of that. It is part of who we are and it helps keep our village and our language alive.”
Campaigners plan to protest outside County Hall in Carmarthen when the Cabinet meets on 17 November at 10am to decide whether to continue with the consultation.
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