'Formal discussions' can begin over future of High Borrans centre, North Tyneside Council confirms
A local authority can now start “formal discussions” over the possible future of its outdoor education centre following the decision to close the beloved institution.
North Tyneside Council will begin talks with neighbouring authorities regarding the future of its Cumbria-based outdoor education hub.
The move marks three months since the council announced it would close High Borrans by November this year, citing an over £3million maintenance bill, declining school trips, and local schools’ preference for other, closer facilities.
While talks are now possible, the council has maintained its stance that the centre will not be under its own control.
A spokesperson for North Tyneside Council said: “The council has taken the decision that High Borrans will not continue to operate under direct council management.
“Engagement has taken place with a range of sector organisations and stakeholders to explore partnership opportunities and potential operating arrangements, and the council is now able to begin formal discussions with other local authorities.”
A council briefing note from February 2025, obtained as an FOI by the Local Democracy Reporting Service, also stated: “Given the challenges facing the sector and local authorities, a way forward may be to review provision with other local authorities on either a Tyne and Wear or LA7 basis to see if there are any opportunities for joint working and shared facilities which may prove to be a more sustainable operating model.”
The decision has sparked public and political outrage, prompting thousands to sign a petition calling for a u-turn on the closure and even threats of legal action from the Save High Borrans Campaign group.
A spokesperson for the High Borrans Campaign group said: “We have consistently argued that alternatives to closure, such as partnerships and alternative operating models, should be properly explored, including proposals from the Friends of High Borrans.
“However, the campaign group has not yet been formally briefed on this development and we are seeking urgent clarification directly from the council. If these discussions are now progressing, we believe the council must reconsider the proposed closure date.
It concluded: “Our priority remains securing a sustainable future for High Borrans for generations of children and young people.”
Reform UK councillor Chris Croft said: “I am hoping a business plan can be put together by the Friends of High Borrans to keep this vital resource open. I have spoken to the council several times to see what can be done to prevent the closure of High Borrans.
Coun Croft continued: “I am more than happy to help to put something together as I come from a business background and have set up various businesses over the years.
“Sadly, the council won’t keep the centre open, but a community asset transfer could be the answer to keeping this much-needed resource open.”
North Tyneside Council’s Conservative group leader, Coun John Johnsson, added: “For weeks we’ve argued that High Borrans deserves proper consideration of alternative operating models rather than a rushed closure.”