I WOULD like to add my congratulations to all the pupils, staff, parents and governors of all the schools in Middlewich.

The recognition of the good/outstanding education provided locally is richly deserved.

As a former head teacher at Middlewich High School I appreciate the hard work, dedication and professionalism needed to reach such high standards.

As the town expands, the challenge will be to provide enough places for all our local children at these schools.

As Cheshire East has yet to produce a viable local plan there is little control over local housing development.

Cheshire East has plans for 1,600 new houses in Middlewich over the next 15 years, approximately 950 have already been built or had planning permission given.

While the proposed Middlewich Neighbourhood Plan will undoubtedly contain plans for improving infrastructure it is crucial funding is made available.

The role of local councillors will be important in arguing the case for Middlewich. There needs to be long-term planning to ensure the schools can accommodate the increase in pupil numbers, as most the current planned development is for family sized houses.

Although some schools do have spare capacity there is likely to be an overall shortfall.

If elected to Cheshire East council, dealing with this issue would be one of my main priorities.

Martin Forster Prospective Labour candidate for Middlewich