PLANS to include special needs pupils in mainstream schools moved a step nearer on Thursday.

The Local Education Authority is seeking the views of parents and teachers in a bid to modernise the way services for these children are provided -- which could mean the closure of some special schools.

Proposals include the phasing out of general learning difficulties units and Hindley J and I and Lamberhead Green schools and maintaining three schools to provide education for children with a range of learning difficulties including Green Hall, Atherton.

A nursery and assessment and observation unit will be set up at Meadowbank J and I, Atherton, if the school agrees.

A formal two months consultation period begins today when statutory notices are published and parents of all pupils where changes are proposed will receive copies.

All written comments can be submitted to the Director of Education, Ged Rowney, before the Independent School Organisation Committee make the final decision.

Mr Rowney said: "We are committed to the inclusion of all pupils within schools in their local area wherever this is appropriate.

"While we accept that change can lead to anxiety and concern it is hoped this has been minimised by involving parents, pupils and schools in discussions about the future."

He said myths have been created about the changes and must be dismissed once and for all.

He said it was not a cost cutting exercise nor a ploy to sell off school land to make money neither was it the intention to disrupt the education of pupils already in special schools or units.

He said: "No child currently being educated in a special school will be moved to a mainstream school unless child and parent wish it. Changes will be implemented sensitively."

Cabinet member for lifelong learning Cllr Brian Wilson said the proposed changes had provoked strong reaction and many were concerned about the closure of individual schools.

He said: "We believe we owe a duty to future generations to end an outdated tradition of segregation and we hope others, particularly parents will agree that the proposals will secure this."