To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will take steps (a) to ensure that the South Eastern Education and Library Board carries out a suitable scheme of upgrading and securing the Movilla High School recreation area in Newtownards and (b) to encourage a partnership approach with Ards borough council in developing the site. [123467]

I understand from the Chief Executive of the South Eastern Education and Library Board that meetings have taken place between the school, the Board, Ards borough council officials and local representatives about the sports/recreation area at Movilla High School.Steps have been taken in the past to improve the fencing of the site in order to deter vandalism, but these have proved ineffective. The Board has, therefore, commissioned a study to examine the feasibility of moving the fencing back from the existing perimeter and, in partnership with the council, to provide some facilities for public use around the perimeter of the area. These proposals will be considered as part of the Board's minor works programme for the next financial year.