Tim Taylor of the AHOEC said: “it’s very disappointing that the council cannot recognise the failings in the build up to this.”

The Friends of High Borrans campaigners, following the council’s decision to simply note the petition.

Coun O’Keefe and High Borrans campaigner : “This is not the end, we will continue to work as a campaign to look at an alternative.”

Responding to the council’s decision to just note the petition Dan Dembry-Edwards, campaigner said: “I really do think it’s a disgraceful decision, that’s the only word I can use”.

The decision to simply note the petition has been passed with 30 votes for, one abstention and 19 Nos

The Conservative recommendations have been voted down.

Councillors are requesting for an extension to the petition section. Which is not covered by the council’s constitution.

Coun Rebecca O’Keefe: “You are making a decision on non-factually information, incorrect, out of date data, please think about the local residents and children.”

Debate will resume in one minute.

The following alternative recommendations have been proposed by conservative opposition councillor Lewis Bartoli

An alternative recommendation is now being circulated. Until now the options open to the council were only to note the petition/refer it to cabinet/refer it to the head of children’s services.

Coun Hallway has announced the council will dedicate £100,000 to children who would otherwise not be able to take part in outdoor education.

Cabinet member Tracy Hallway has stated that the financial position of the centre has made it unviable. And backs the council’s original position, saying extending the closure would be too costly.

Dan Edwards has spoken to the council, asking for a 6-month pause on the decision to close the centre.

Tonight’s full council has now begun! With campaigners haven taken their seats.

It’s just 10 minutes to go before tonight’s full council, with High Borrans high on the agenda!

Penny Remfry, 80, said: “My son went to High Borrans in middle school and it was so good for him. Not just the activities but internet of confidence and friendships” Penny continued: “He lives in Ottawa now and the he comes back he still sees those same people”

Martin Martin Collins, science communicator said: “it seems to me ridiculous especially now we have just introduced a natural history GCSE.” Martin continued: “These places are becoming fewer and further between which is a sad matter.”

The petitioner and High Borrans volunteer Megan Rowan said: “we want to save High Borrans I think the decision that has been made is not backed up by evidence and we haven’t been given the chance to give that evidence.”

Passing motorists have been blaring their support as the go by