Strangford MLA Nick Mathison, who is also Chair of Stormont’s Education Committee, stated: “This is an extremely disappointing development and my thoughts today are with the overwhelming majority of parents at both schools who voted in favour of becoming integrated, and who have not had those aspirations honoured.

“People locally will rightfully be very concerned about the ongoing lack of commitment to encouraging, facilitating and supporting Integrated Education, as is the legal duty of the minister’s department.

"Time and time again, polling demonstrates the sheer demand that exists for integrated education and the extreme lack of supply that exists to match it. We will continue pushing for the expansion of integrated education until it is truly accessible for every family in Northern Ireland."

North Down MLA Connie Egan added: “This decision, like the initial decision of the minister earlier this year to ignore the will of parents and reject these bids, will come with great shock and disappointment right across North Down.

“Alliance will continue doing all we can to support not only these two schools as they continue to demonstrate their commitment to integration, but all those who wish to transform to integrated status. Every parent deserves access to integrated education for their child and it is crucial we do everything we can to facilitate that.”