MEMBERS of Bridgend council have approved plans to to expand Coety Primary School this month, as part of the local authority’s school modernisation programme.
The move could now see the school’s capacity increase from 420 to 525 places for pupils aged between 4 and 11-years-old, after the results of an options appraisal that was carried out identified the need to increase the number of places at the school.
Following the approval of members, the plans can now move forward to the next phase, with a planning application needing to be submitted and approved for the project to begin.
If granted it would see the development of a two-storey, four-classroom extension added on to the existing site, along with an extended school yard that would cater for the increase in pupils. Officers say it could also facilitate an increase nursery provision with an additional 12 full-time- equivalent places.
The report heard by members highlighted that there was a need for the extra provision of school spaces in the area, following the construction of additional housing being built nearby at Parc Derwen.
It read: “In order to address the demand for places at Coety Primary School, officers undertook an options appraisal which identified the need to increase provision at the school. The appraisal resulted in a preferred option being identified in the form of a two-storey, four-classroom extension.”
During the consultation period two objections were said to have been received, which showed concerns over the capacity of the school and playground space, as well as the impact of mixed classes, and disruption caused during construction, however the plans were still approved.
Cllr Jon-Paul Blundell said: “The expansion of Coety Primary School is a really important project which helps to make sure that the school reflects the continued growth of the area while maximising the choice available for parents/carers and learners.
“The plans will ultimately mean that more learners will have the choice of attending their most local school and this can often have a big impact on an individual’s education.”
