North Tyneside Council's controversial decision to close the beloved Lake District outdoor education centre High Borrans by November this year has been condemned as failing young people in the North East by Professor Roy Sandbach OBE, a prominent academic and business leader.
Life-changing experiences at risk
Professor Sandbach, who has held senior roles in business, public bodies, and universities, has a close association with the centre. He stated he has seen 'many young people enjoyed life-changing times there' and has vowed to challenge the council's decision. 'If it closes, we are losing the battle to give young people exposure to real-world experiences that challenge the mind, and build leadership, teamwork and resilience,' he said. 'This is absolutely desperate…and I'm going to do everything I can to challenge the decision.'
Public outcry and petition
The closure announcement has sparked political and public outcry, including a petition to preserve the centre that has amassed more than 1,600 signatures. The local authority maintains that local children will continue to have access to outdoor education, but recent attendance figures show only 1,255 pupils from Years 5 to 8 used the centre out of a potential cohort of 9,300. Schools are increasingly choosing alternative outdoor education providers, and the centre requires £3.4 million in investment to remain compliant.
Council defends decision
Rebecca Wall, director of children's services at North Tyneside Council, said: 'The Council has taken the difficult decision to close High Borrans Outdoor Education Centre following a detailed review of its usage, costs and long-term sustainability. We know how valued the centre is and the important role it has played for many years. However, like councils across the country, we are facing significant financial pressures. The level of investment required to maintain and modernise the centre, alongside the ongoing subsidy needed to support each visit, means it is no longer financially viable.'
She added: 'We recognise the impact this decision will have on our dedicated staff team and on schools with existing bookings. We are committed to working closely with them to provide support and ensure a carefully managed transition.'
Financial pressures cited
A spokesperson for the council's Labour administration previously stated: 'When councils are under unprecedented financial pressure, it is right to ask whether continuing to invest millions of pounds in a single residential facility represents the best use of public money, particularly when North Tyneside children can continue to access higher quality outdoor learning through a range of other providers.'
The Local Democracy Reporting Service obtained further clarity on the decision-making process, noting that the report on the prospective closure was treated as exempt from public view due to sensitive information and staff details. Council officers were on site to speak with colleagues, answer questions, and offer support once the decision was made. High Borrans is a non-statutory, contracted service; schools choose whether to use the centre, and in recent years, many have opted for alternative providers.
