Issue - meetings

Forward Plan Ref: 2016/115

Contact: Diane Cameron, School Organisation Officer Tel: 07795 301254

Report by Director for Children’s Services (CMDCEF4).

This report follows a public consultation and Statutory Notice period relating to a proposal to expand Chesterton CE (VA) Primary School to 1 form entry. The proposal is supported by the school’s Governing Body and the Diocese.

Chesterton village is part of the Bicester partnership of schools, where pupil numbers have risen and large strategic housing developments are planned. To ensure sufficient pupil places are available a number of new schools are planned, and some existing schools are being expanded. Within Chesterton village there has been construction and occupation of new housing development, and more is anticipated.

This report summarises the response from the public consultation and the statutory notice, where the most common concern was around increase in traffic / parking issues at the start and end of the school day. A statement from the Governing Body of the school is also included, setting out its views on the benefit to the school of the proposal.

The decision-making power in terms of determining the proposal in this case lies with the Cabinet Member for Education.

The Cabinet Member is RECOMMENDED to approve the proposed expansion of Chesterton CE (VA) Primary School.

Having taken into account views expressed by the Parish Council, the Local Member and localities Meeting, but in light of parental demand, housing growth and secured Section 106 Agreements and the fact that if there is a real problem with traffic it will be picked up by Highways through the planning process I have decided to agree the recommendation to approve the proposed expansions of Chesterton CE (VA) Primary School.

Recommendations Agreed