A headteacher has explained his decision to build a fence around his school, which has prevented children and residents using the playing field out of school hours.
Last week it was reported how a decision by Notley High, in Notley Road, Braintree, to put a 5ft-high fence around the school sparked an angry reaction from residents, who had grown accustomed to using the school field for walks, picnics and sports for children after school.
But John Hartley, head at Notley High, today said the fence is necessary to prevent problems like dog fouling and vandalism.
He said: "There is a clear need to do everything we can to protect the school grounds and property from vandalism.
"In recent years there have been a number of incidents of serious criminal damage to the school premises and grounds arising from unauthorised access.
"There is every indication that improving our boundary fencing will cut incidents of this type."
A meeting between the school, Essex County Council and district and county councillor Robert Walters is due to take place next week.
Published Wednesday, June 4, 2003
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