Anfield Academy

CAMPAIGNERS trying to stop the building of a £30m superschool in Liverpool were today told: "Bow out gracefully."

The ECHO revealed yesterday how the Anfield Academy faced a further hold-up of up to two months after residents refused to drop their protest.

People living close to the proposed site of the new superschool want to save the Dixie Dean playing fields in Heyworth Street and have them designated as a village green.

But after a high court judge threw out their campaign, they are now calling for another hearing and a judicial review.

The North Liverpool Academy Trust Board said it was likely to take around two months.

A spokeswoman said: "On behalf of parents, teachers and the students of the North Liverpool Academy, we are disappointed the case against Liverpool council is being taken to a hearing.

"We hope the court's decision will be made quickly."

A temporary "academy" for the 1,200 students will open at Anfield high school in September.

The North Liverpool Academy spokes-woman said: "Staffing structures are being put in place and both schools have been collaborating on a joint curriculum."

Liverpool Labour leader Cllr Joe Anderson said: "It is disappointing and frustrating that a handful of people are stopping a first class facility being built in the area.

"A strong enough case has not been put forward and I would like the campaigners to accept this and bow out gracefully."

Liverpool council leader Cllr Warren Bradley said: "It is sad there is now a further delay but I do understand residents have concerns.

"It has been proven, however, that children benefit and perform better when they are educated in state-of-the-art facilities."

However, Alby Murphy, one of the residents who is campaigning to keep the Dixie Dean playing fields, said: "Residents will take it all the way. We are not against the school but many questions have not been answered."

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