Botley’s extension plan made permanent (From The Oxford Times)

Botley’s extension plan made permanent

9:30am Wednesday 19th September 2012 in News

COUNCIL chiefs have voted to permanently expand Botley School.

The primary took on 60 pupils instead of its usual 45 in September this year due to a rise in demand.

But Oxfordshire County Council has had to follow a specific process, which includes consultation, to make the move permanent. At a meeting of the cabinet yesterday, officers unanimously approved plans and the change also had support from the opposition.

Lib Dem councillor Janet Godden, whose division contains the school, said: “I very much welcome expanding Botley School on the grounds that there are now two large housing developments in the area.

“There is a lot of new development coming on board and of the sort that will attract young families.”

She praised the school for trying to meet the demand, and backed the bid. Cabinet member for education Melinda Tilley said: “This needs to go ahead.”

Members urged that new buildings, not temporary blocks, be approved because of noise issues caused by the school’s proximity to the A34.

More than 300 reception places have been created in Oxford since 2006.