THE creation of a £multi-million academy in north Taunton moved a step closer yesterday (Wednesday).

Statutory notices are to be published to close Ladymead Community School and The St Augustine of Canterbury School.

The move, approved by Somerset County Council’s Cabinet, is a legal requirement to pave the way for the new academy, which would be sponsored by the county and the Diocese of Bath and Wells.

The final decision on whether to go ahead with the academy, which would be funded by the Department for Schools and Families, is expected to be made public in December.

Ladymead and St Augustine’s would then close at the end of the summer term next year and the academy would open on the Ladymead site in September 2010.

Between £15m and £20m would be pumped into new buildings and other facilities at what would be the first academy in Somerset in the period up to 2013.

Cllr John Osman, the council’s cabinet member for education said: “A new academy in Taunton is an exciting prospect for all students attending St Augustine’s and Ladymead.

“Closing these schools is a necessary step towards creating an academy, which we’re confident will provide an excellent education and outstanding opportunities for all students and the wider community.”

St Augustine’s governors support the proposals, while Ladymead governors have expressed concerns about the project.

The county claimed a public consultation saw 64% of respondents in favour of the academy, but Ladymead said there was unanimous disapproval in a survey they conducted.