Hampshire School Places Plan

Hampshire County Council has released a draft plan to look at the future of school places in the area over the next four years.

The council says rising birth rates, population movement and parental preference are all putting pressure on the availability of school places in Hampshire.

Councillors warn the increased demand means between 19 and 21 new primary schools will be needed over the next ten years - along with 2 new secondary schools

The aim of the plan is to predict the demand for school places until 2015, looking at population growth and new housing.

The council will have to consult with 13 planning authorities, as well as looking at health care trust data about the number of babies being born.

Councillor Perry said they are committed to giving children and young people equal access to excellent learning opportunities no matter where they live in the county.

He added; "This means we have to work closely with district and borough councils and other planning authorities to take account of planned housing development thus helping us to determine an appropriate pattern of provision to meet future needs for school places and to secure the necessary funding to deliver those places."

If Councillor Perry accepts the draft plan and gives the go ahead for consultation then the council will be asking for the views of schools, district and borough councils and neighbouring authorities.

The closing date for comments on the plan is 31st March 2012.

You can look at the plan here - and email your views to Ian Lawson at Hampshire County Council: ian.lawson@hants.gov.uk