The local authority has drawn up proposals to merge three schools to create two 'super' schools which would specialise in certain subjects.

The project has proved costly for Yale College

If the plan goes ahead the Groves High School will shutdown and St David's and Bryn Offa will be re-modernised.

The scheme would leave one of the premises empty which would be bought by Yale sixth form college to offer specialist vocational courses to school leavers.

However, education bosses have said it may not be possible to complete the preparatory funding work required in time for their September deadline.

Increased costs

Recent calculations carried out by Yale College have indicated that their costs are likely to be higher than anticipated.

Full funding is not yet available to meet the additional criteria.

Emlyn Jones, Yale College principal said he is concerned about the scheme's future.

"Yale College deeply regrets that this most worthwhile project may now be delayed.

"It has been recognised from the outset that Yale College's involvement was subject to the availability of external funding, without which the governing body cannot commit itself unreservedly to providing the funding.

Ian Lucas is keen for a decision to be made

"Having said that, the college is actively exploring a number of avenues of funding," he said.

A final decision on the scheme will be made by the Welsh Assembly following a full consultation process with parents and pupils.

Wrexham Council have carried out interviews with affected groups, including representatives of the pupils at each of the three schools.

Parents are being advised that the project could be delayed if the matter has not been resolved by the end of September.

They will be given an update of the situation at the beginning of next month.

Wrexham MP Ian Lucas said he was concerned that the scheme could be delayed.

"I think it is essential that a decision is made quickly, the uncertainty that currently exists is damaging.

"I am therefore anxious that a decision is reached very quickly."

The scheme has been dogged by criticism from many parents of pupils who attend the affected schools.

In April this year a petition with more than 1,000 signatures was handed in to education officials in protest over the plans.

However, in a joint statement both Wrexham Council and Yale College pledged their continued commitment to the scheme.