Of the 21 playing fields we approved for disposal 14 were schools that had closed, four were sites that became surplus when existing schools amalgamated. Of the other three:
We will only agree to the sale of school playing fields if the sports and curriculum needs of schools and their neighbouring schools can continue to be met. Sale proceeds must be used to improve sports or education facilities and any new sports facilities must be sustainable for at least 10 years.
The number of approvals in previous years is as follows:
1999: 42
2000: 31
2001: 21
2002: 24
2003: 16
2004: 13
2005: 11
2006: 8
2007: 19
2008: 11
2009: 16
Since May 2010: 21
Contact details
Central newsdesk
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Telephone: 020 7783 8300
Public Communication Unit: General enquiries
for general enquiries
Telephone: 0370 000 2288