Relocation to Bicton College should be put to public meeting, says Vernon Whitlock.

The Mayor of Honiton has called on Devon’s education chief to carry out wider public consultation, including a public meeting, before making a decision over the relocation of Mill Water School to Bicton College.

Vernon Whitlock says Christine Channon was wrong when she told councillors in Budleigh Salterton that the school’s pupils do not go out in Honiton very much.

He described her language as “frankly patronising”.

“They come into the town every week and have been doing so for over 30 years,” he told the Midweek Herald.

Councillor Whitlock said Honiton Town Council is concerned that a move to Bicton would “shut the children away”.

He said: “I have spoken to staff who are concerned about the move to Bicton and also understand that some parents are also concerned, but are afraid to speak out.

“They need to have a voice.

“Mill Water pupils are valued members of the community and are supported by dedicated staff.

“They deserve better.”

Councillor Whitlock added: “I call on Councillor Channon and Devon education chiefs to arrange for a wider public meeting so the issues can be discussed openly and to ensure the right decision is made.”