A Macclesfield councillor has sought to reassure parents about Cheshire East's plan for the "phased wider opening" of schools across the borough.

Cllr James Barber, who is the council's 'Champion for Young People', acknowledged that the thought of children returning to educational settings would cause "anxiety and worry" for some people.

He said: "Therefore, contrary to the Government's wishes, Cheshire East will not be asking additional children and young people to attend educational institutions on 1st June, instead we will begin the process of a careful, staged approach."

Cllr Barber confirmed that parents who decide not to send their children to school would not be fined by the council, but he encouraged them to speak to the school to "make your own judgement".

The councillor reiterated the councils plan that pupils would be "phased back" from 15th June, giving schools time to "prepare their site, classroom and policies" and adapt to new social distancing measures.

The phased reopening will start with nursery aged children on 15th June, followed by reception and year 1 pupils can return to primary school with limited places from 22nd June. Year 6 pupils can return on 29th June if the schools have enough space.

The return of other year groups is to be discussed with the Department for Education (DfE).

Cllr Barber said: "Naturally there will be disappointment from many parents, and we recognise this. Our decision has been driven by assuring the safety of both children and staff in schools. Guidance has been slow so far and we are still awaiting further guidance from the DfE."

He added that the council would not be "taking risks with our children and school staff by moving too quickly."

The councillor, who represents the Broken Cross and Upton ward, told parents that schools would not be able to deliver a full curriculum and children would not be able to mix outside their "bubble".

Under government advice, class sizes should be no larger than 15 pupils, but Cllr Barber acknowledged that some schools will not be able to accommodate that with social distancing and they will "make their own plans".

Cllr Barber concluded: "I want to reassure you that this decision was made with children's safety at its heart. Because while their education is of huge significance, their health and safety is our priority. This is why we are not rushing into this and why our approach is phased and gradual."