Isolated communities 'at risk' if schools are axed

Proposals to close four primary schools on Shetland could threaten the future viability of isolated island communities, Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Tavish Scott has warned.

Mr Scott, who is fighting to win the Shetland seat at the Holyrood election, has joined parent councils at the four schools under threat in opposing plans by Shetland Islands Council (SIC) to axe the primaries as part of its money-saving "blueprint for education" strategy.

Under the proposals, due to be debated at a special meeting next month, the primaries at Burravoe, North Roe, Sandness and Uyeasound would all be closed and the pupils transferred to alternative schools, following this year's October holidays. It has been estimated to save the council between 600,000 and 700,000 a year.

Mr Scott has told the council: "As many parents have put it, a blueprint to close schools is not the same as a blueprint for education."

A spokeswoman for SIC said its services committee would consider the proposals, with the full council reaching a decision on 17 May.