Placard-waving protesters have failed in their bid to get controversial proposals to close up to five schools in Powys scrapped.

Up to 60 angry protesters representing parents, teachers and pupils lobbied county councillors arriving for an emergency debate at county hall in Llandrindod Wells yesterday.

An action group from Llanidloes handed in a 1,300-signature petition.

But a motion to scrap four options drawn up as part of a review by Powys County Council, including proposals to close up to five schools, was defeated at the meeting.

It was decided that a new specialist board would be set up to lead a review into the issue.

Council proposals could lead to the closure of schools in Llanidloes, Crickhowell, Gwernyfed, Llanfyllin or Llanfair Caereinion and Llandrindod Wells or Builth Wells.

Sixth forms at every school across the county could also be closed and pupils sent to three Coleg Powys sites.

During the meeting Councillors David Jones, board member responsible for schools, said: “We appreciate the concern created by the unauthorised release of an initial paper.

“To help restore confidence in a review that is vital for the future education of our youngsters I have called for the steering group to be disbanded. We need to appoint a review board made up of elected members and technical officers that can take the process forward.

“Change in the way secondary schools are provided is essential if we are to provide the best possible start for our youngsters. The status quo is not an option.”

Mr Jones said he would report to the council’s board on March 2 outlining the “makeup and terms of reference for a new school modernisation programme board”.

He said there would be full consultation with stakeholders and the public on any developed options and before decisions were taken.

Councillor Aled Davies, from Llansilin, said: “This process needs to be stopped in its tracks and these four options removed from the table. We must regain the trust of the community and fully consult with everyone on any future plans.”

But Jeremy Paterson, the council’s chief executive, said it was important to finish what had already been started.

By Anwen Evans