CONTROVERSIAL plans to shake-up Monmouthshire's education system are splitting communities as campaigners battle to save closure-threatened schools.

The county council's strategic review of primary education provision could see up to 11 schools closing - 10 in the Abergavenny area, and one in Caldicot - to meet government targets on class sizes and building quality.

But parents and governors of schools facing closure are canvassing support and preparing alternative proposals. In Abergavenny, St David's Junior, Croesonen Infants and Llwynu Infants schools are earmarked for closure.

Some parents and governors suggests Lywnu replace them by becoming a 420-pupil school. But another group of campaigners is want an alternative.

Mark Lawson, of Ostringen Close - whose son attends Croesonen Infants - said: "It involves having three 210 all-through primary schools at Croesonen, Llywnu and Harold Road. That way equally-spaced schools will be in the town which will provide education for each community."

But those who support the Lywnu proposal - including Llywnu governor Verona Nelmes - say that is the worst possible scenario, as pupils would be no better off.

In Caldicot, supporters of Green Lane Junior School want a new school built if it closes. But opponents claim there is no need - and such a proposal could force the closure of West End Infants.

Green Lane head teacher Ken Jacobs said: "We only need three schools, St Mary's, Durand and a 420-place school at Green Lane.

"I am aware of a number of petitions in the town and I suppose people have loyalty to particular schools but the ultimate question is 'what is in the best interests of the children?'"

But Kevin Bevan, vice- chairman of governors at West End Infants, said it was better Green Lane close and their school stay open.

He supports a proposal to expand West End Infants into a 175-pupil primary school. "Petitions show parents and residents in the area feel that such a primary school would serve the community, parents and pupils well."

Malcolm Morris, acting head of school improvement in Monmouthshire's lifelong learning and leisure department, said the whole intention behind the consultation exercise containing the council's proposals was to allow people to make comments.

He said: "There was no intention to cause division. It may appear to be happening but it's minimal in comparison to the whole exercise."

*PICTURED: Councillor Kevin Bevan, of West End Infants (left) and Ken Jacob, head teacher of Green Lane Junior.