Proposals to erect a fence around one of the ACT's oldest schools are threatening to divide the community of the inner north suburb of Ainslie.
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A public meeting on Tuesday night will debate if a fence should be built around Ainslie School, with principal Kate Chapman warning no matter what decision the school made, some people would be disappointed.
There are four options for a fence - three outlining different models - and one proposal to have no fence.
The ACT Council of Parents and Citizens Associations president, Viv Pearce, has warned that fences at Canberra schools, rather than being straightforward matters, can become magnets for controversy.
''We have no position [on the fence issue] because it varies from school to school and between communities and I can understand the pros and cons,'' she said.
''If communities are not consulted and if people feel that their local amenities are being cut off then it does get very controversial.
''Because schools are part of the community it is not a simple question of having enough money in the budget and then automatically getting a fence.
''It's a lot like being a judge and having to weigh it all up - heritage concerns, vandalism at the school and what the majority of people who live with and use the school really want.''
Ms Chapman said she expected a large turnout for Tuesday's meeting and as well as an energetic debate.
''I'm staying neutral,'' she said.
''I have passionate people against the fence and passionate people for the fence. Whatever we do there will be people who are unhappy.''
Ms Chapman said the concerns were largely centred on preserving the school's heritage and the community involvement.
Access to the school as well as safety and anti-vandalism measures were also concerns.
''A lot of people in the Ainslie community feel the school is well protected by them but on the other hand they cannot be there 24 hours a day,'' she said.
''There are strong heritage arguments against having a fence and many people love walking around the school and there is a feeling within the community of the community looking after Ainslie School very well.''
The meeting will be held in the Yerra (new) Building at Ainslie School on Tuesday from 7-8.30pm.