Schools' expansion put to public

A public consultation has started into plans by education bosses to expand 17 primary schools.

Education Leeds said the plan was in response to an expected increase in the number of children requiring a place in the city's primary schools by 2010.

Extra rooms will be added in some schools to accommodate the predicted rise in pupil numbers.

Additional places for children with special educational needs will also be provided in two of the schools.

The consultation is being held at various locations across Leeds. Views will then be presented to Leeds City Council's executive board in February, with a final decision expected in July 2010.

Councillor Richard Harker, the executive board member for education at Leeds City Council, said: "We have a responsibility to provide an education to every child in the city and we intend to ensure there are local places to meet local needs.

"We believe these schools are in the right locations and are able to expand to meet the demand. They will receive our full support to ensure every child receives the best possible start to their education."

The 17 affected primary schools are: Beeston, Blenheim, Brudenell, Ebor Gardens, Greenmount, Highfield, Hugh Gaitskell, Ireland Wood, Ingram Road, Iveson, Mill Field, Moor Allerton Hall, New Bewerley Community School, Swarcliffe, Victoria, Whitkirk and Thorner Church of England.