THE final stages of a massive re-organisation of Wyre Forest schools are under way, giving residents another chance to state their views.

Public notices over the controversial shake-up - which will close all middle schools and four first schools - have been published and people have until March 3 to submit their views.

The publication of the official notices from Worcestershire County Council were delayed after six months of council wrangling.

Views given during previous consultations, which stretch back to 2002, must be re-stated as part of the six-week notice period.

The independent Schools Organisation Committee - made up of parents, church leaders and councillors - will then take the final decision on the shake-up, in early April.

If the committee cannot agree, the matter will be decided by an independent adjudicator. This was the case last year with the controversial closure of Alexander Patterson special school in Wolverley, which is due to shut this spring.

Residents with views on the changeover - which will see a two-tier primary-secondary system from 2007 - are being urged to speak up.

Jayne Peters, chairman of the Hands Off Stone First School action group, said: "The parents at Stone are very eager to write in and support the school more than ever."

Dr George Lord, Conservative chairman of the cabinet, said the council welcomed comments but said he would personally like to see "specific comments or recommendations".

He added: "They can't go back to discussing two versus three-tier - it has all been agreed. "

Head of education policy development, Colin Weedon, said: "We would welcome comments in favour or from those who have concerns or objections."

The cabinet agreed the reorganisation in July but passed modified plans in November after the issue was called in for scrutiny by a council watchdog.

l Comments should be sent to: Director of Educational Services, FAO Alison Cartwright, Policy Officer - Schools, Education Directorate, PO Box 73, Worcester WR5 2YA.