No decision on building as last bell rings at Dunmurry High School

The closure comes despite a hard fought campaign by parents, politicians and the local community for a reprieve. It was in April Education Minister John O’Dowd confirmed the school would close for the last time at the end of June.

The final decision by the minister came despite extensive appeals from public representatives and parents to keep the school open.

Mr O’Dowd blamed declining enrolment figures with only 175 children enrolled in 2011/12.

David Mack, Parent Representative on the Board of Governors said the closure will be a sad time for the community and raised concerns about the future of the building.

He said that there are various options - inclidung demolition - but that decision will be made ultimately by the South Eastern Education and Library Board.

Mr Mack said that it has been a sad week for the Dunmurry area.

Concerned

“A few years ago an old people’s home closed here in Seymour Hill, then we have Dunmurry Police Station and now the closure of Dunmurry High,” he said.

“No decision has been made about the building and that’s up to the Board.

“But as someone who lives in the area I would be concerned about the building being left empty over the summer months.

“It does not officially close until August 31 but the board have been made aware of the concerns a lot of the people in the area have.

“Dunmurry residents have lost a lot lately. I feel saddened that it has closed. It will be very difficult for families with young children coming into the area because they won’t have a high school locally. That could eventually have an impact of the area as a whole.”

HAVE you any old photographs of Dunmurry High School? If so, send them to [email protected] or post them to Ulster Star, 12A Bow Street, Lisburn BT28 1BN.