Note on the closure of the Friends School (The Walden) School

Like many people I was shocked and saddened by the announcement that the Friends School in Saffron Walden is to close. It has provided an excellent education for many pupils over the years, and has been an integral and important part of Saffron Walden.

We have seen several iconic buildings lose their original purpose, most recently the Police Station. It is important to consider the future use of the Friends School. In my view it is essential that the school stays in educational use, and is not sold off for redevelopment.

We need a new two-form entry primary school in Saffron Walden, which could be provided on this site with very little adaptation necessary. And we need a new secondary school, to meet the increased demand from new housing development. This too could be accommodated on the Friends School site.

Let us hope that we can make a new future for the Friends School in the Saffron Walden Community.