TIME is running out to end a stalemate and get pupils at asbestos-hit Cwmcarn High School back in their original building by the next school year, the local authority is warning.

Caerphilly council issued a statement this afternoon calling on Cwmcarn High School's governors to reach an agreement with it over controversial asbestos works at the site - so work can be done to get pupils back there by September.

The council's Acting Chief Executive Nigel Barnett met the governing body last week to outline options for progressing the works.

The statement said: "The governors met again on Tuesday without reaching a decision and they have now informed the council they intend to meet again on Monday 17th June."

Nigel Barnett said, “I would like to assure the school community that we are ready to move quickly as soon as a decision is made, but we are becoming increasingly frustrated by the school’s lack of progress and it now seems we must wait until next week for a decision to be made.

"Time is fast running out and I would urge the school leadership to take decisive action before we miss our window of opportunity to get the work done in time."

Cllr Rhianon Passmore, cabinet member for educations said, “Pupils, parents and staff are understandably very concerned about the delay. The Acting Chief Executive met the governors and gave clear assurances that the council would be able to deliver the works on time – as long as a decision was taken quickly as timescales are now critical.

"The education and wellbeing of the children is paramount, but unfortunately we are still awaiting a decision and time is running out if pupils are to return home to Cwmcarn for the start of the new term in September.”