School expansion plans for Crawley, Horsham and Mid Sussex

The extra places are needed due to an increase in the number of children being born locally, people moving to the area and large housing developments.

The expansion of a number of existing schools is being proposed, as well as brand new schools in certain areas.

People are being asked to give their views on the plans which are set out in detail in a consultation document.

The document can be viewed by visiting: www.westsussex.gov.uk/haveyoursay.

West Sussex County Council Cabinet Member for Education and Skills, Jeremy Hunt, said: “We have been closely monitoring the number of children in schools in these areas to make sure they can meet the demand for places. We have now received evidence that further growth in the number of children is expected.

“We are working with schools to coordinate this consultation on their behalf and I would urge people to get involved so their views can be considered.”

Public drop-in sessions have been organised for people to find out more and ask questions.

They will be held on:

• Monday September 22 – 4pm-7pm – Crawley Library, Southgate Ave.

• Thursday September 25 – 2.30pm-4.30pm – Warden Park Primary Academy, New England Road, Haywards Heath.

• Tuesday September 30 – 9.30am-midday – County Hall North, Chartway, Horsham.

The deadline for comments on the proposals is Tuesday October 14, 2014.

Comments will then be collated and analysed before being passed to the relevant schools. Governing bodies will make decisions about whether to go ahead with proposed expansions.

The sponsor of the new school proposed for Kilnwood Vale will be appointed by the Secretary of State for Education.

Expansions of schools in the south of the County will be subject to separate consultation.