The controversial closure of ten Bradford special schools is a step nearer after the plans won backing from the Education Policy Partnership (EEP).

It recommended the closure of the schools and their replacement with six new ones under the Government's private finance initiative. But members last night demanded assurances that there would be no compromise on the quality of the buildings. Hundreds of parents have opposed the plans.

The £35 million revamp was backed by all members of the EPP - which includes politicians, representatives of governors, heads and teachers - except for Labour education spokesman Councillor Phil Thornton, who abstained.

Ten schools will close in 2006 under the plan: Braithwaite and Branshaw in Keighley; Heaton Royds, Shipley; and Wedgwood, Haycliffe, Greenfield, Lister Lane, Bolling, Chapel Grange and Netherlands Avenue in Bradford.

Education Bradford and Bradford Council want to replace them with three new primary schools built alongside St Mary's Riddlesden, Lapage and Belle Vue schools and three new secondary special schools 'co-located' with Greenhead High, Beckfoot and Grange Technology College.

Education Bradford managing director Mark Pattison said no amount of consultation would satisfy some parents who would always oppose the closure of special schools.

"If you are going to wait for the full support of parents and all the staff, you will never get there, because it doesn't happen," he said.

"Closing special schools is always painful and emotional. People will defend their current situation, even if it's appalling. Our responsibility is to future generations."

A final decision will be made by the Council's ruling executive on November 18.

After the meeting Tina Burton, parent governor at Wedgwood, said: "I'm disgusted with the way they are treating us and our children. We will not stop fighting for our school."