Amalgamation of St Eugene's, Rosemount, St Anne's has been proposed

A spokesperson for the Department of Education told the Sentinel: "There have been proposals to amalgamate the three schools on a single site.

"These are at a very early stage and no commitments have been given."

Education Minister Caitrona Ruane revealed the three Catholic Primary Schools were one of nine separate projects currently awaiting funding or approval in the Londonderry area.

She listed the St Eugene's, Rosemount, and St Anne's project as a joint scheme, which is currently at the "early stages of planning."

The Council for Catholic Maintained Schools (CCMS) told the Sentinel an economic appraisal was currently underway for the three schools at Francis Street, Helen Street and Upper Nassau Street respectively. But no decisions have yet been taken.

A spokesperson said: "An economic appraisal is currently underway for the schools in the parish of Templemore, this includes Rosemount Primary School, St Anne's Primary School and St Eugene's Primary School.

"CCMS have consulted with the local school community in relation to future education provision for the parish and all options are still on the table and being considered.

"No decisions have been made at this stage.

"Once completed, the economic appraisal will put forward a recommended option, following this there will be a full consultation with the school community."