School did have future

Published: 12 November, 2010

• DAVID Barry claims that the expert report commissioned by Islington Council concluded that the existing Ashmount School could not be made fit for purpose (Building fit for school, November 5). 

But the report itself concludes: “In summary, it can be seen that significant improvements could be made to the existing buildings in order to provide a better standard of accommodation for the pupils and staff of the school and… a more up-to-date learning environment that comes close to achieving the requirements of BB99 [the current standard for new-build schools]”. No one has ever said, as he claims, that a finger should not be laid on the building.

 Still, Mr Barry is to have his way, and I agree with him that the site for the new school on metropolitan open land is magnificent. A pity rather fewer people will be able to enjoy it.

JAMES DUNNETT
James Dunnett Architects
Barnsbury Road, N1