Ashton Gate primary school governors thank contributors to consultation

The governors of Ashton Gate Primary School have thanked everyone who took part in the recent consultation about the possible expansion of the school, as part of moves under consideration to address the shortage of primary schools places in Bedminster and BS3.

The Local Authority is considering buying two parcels of land from nearby St Francis Church in order to create additional space at the school. 

Common concerns expressed by those taking part in the consultation were the potential loss of the school's close-knit community feel and the safety implications of a split site.

Following the feedback, the governors of Ashton Gate are now exploring the option of putting Nursery and Reception classes on the St Francis Church site. 

They have agreed that the creation of an acceptable road crossing would be a minimum requirement for the opening of an annex to the main site.

If the expansion were to go ahead, it would allow for three Reception classes to be accommodated at Ashton Gate in 2012 and 2013.

The governors are due to make a decision on 13 December, in time to inform the Local Authority before the public announcement expected on 15 December about where extra capacity can be put in place in time for the next school year. 

Bristol City Council has been told it will receive £18.3million from central government funds to create new primary school places in the city.

It is working with governors, head teachers, parents and local councillors to organise 400 more places across the city for the September 2012 intake.

It is thought that 98 children living in the greater Bedminster area could miss out on a place at a local school next year if nothing is done to address the shortage of primary school places here.