A PRIMARY school in Westbury has submitted plans to Wiltshire Council to expand by 130 pupils.

If Bitham Brook's plans are approved, two new classrooms will be built over two phases, with the money for the development coming from two housing developers currently at work in the town.

Robert Hitchins Ltd has been given permission to build 300 houses on land opposite Bitham Park while Barratt Homes is building 220 houses near The Mead. Both have pledged money to the expansion.

Head teacher David Ross said: “The intention is that the first phase of the development will be completed by September next year, so building could likely start as soon as before Christmas, but it’s very much dependent on nearby building work.

“Phase one will allow for 60 new children to start at the school and phase two for a further 70.

“It’s very exciting for us as the expansion will also include a dance studio, technology area and group working rooms, in addition to what we already have here.

“Also, as people will be moving into nearby houses bit by bit, there will be a trickle of new children coming to the school – it won’t be a sudden influx.

“This means we will be able to maintain our family atmosphere which runs through the school, underpinned by our ‘head, heart and hands’ motto.”

The plan for expansion includes no extra car parking provision, which will anger residents in Arundell Close, who earlier this year said that their property is being damaged by parents dropping their children off and picking them up.

Mr Ross added: “While there are no plans to increase parking spaces at the school, I don’t think it will be an issue.

“We have initiatives in place to alleviate the problem such as encouraging people to walk and cycle to school with the help of our green ambassadors.

“We also have a good relationship with the nearby Co-op, where parents can park in the morning and afternoon if they prefer.”

Search for 16/07361/FUL on Wiltshire Council's website to see the full plans.