PLANS to make Winsford High Street Primary the largest primary school in west Cheshire have been met with anger by members of Winsford Town Council.

Cheshire West and Chester Council (CWAC) announced last month that it has plans to expand six primary schools in the borough, with the Winsford primary school being earmarked for an extra 105 places.

The plans would see the school capacity increase from 420 to 525. The average capacity for primary schools in west Cheshire is 220 according to government statistics from 2015.

Town councillors discussed the news at this month’s town council meeting on Monday and members were not in favour of expanding the school further.

Cllr Tony Hooton, whose children went to the school, said there are plenty of other schools in the town that are getting overlooked.

Cllr Hooton said: “I have a great deal of affection for High Street Primary School, but it isn’t the only school in Winsford.

“When you look at all the new houses going up, none of them are in walking distance of High Street School. I’m pleased the school is so popular but I’m sure there are some others that would benefit from more pupils and I know of one that many people would like to be reopened.”

Other councillors echoed the sentiments of reopening Handley Hill but Cllr Stephen Burns was quick to give fellow members a reality check by explaining the cost of reopening the school would be ‘astronomical.’ Winsford High Street has already undergone a large expansion of its capacity and therefore, would this time require a public consultation.

Members of the public have just days left to submit their thoughts on the plans.

Carolyn Davis, senior manager for education infrastructure at CWAC, said: “Because the school has already expanded from 315 places to 420 pleases without a statutory consultation, there is a requirement now to consult on the cumulative growth of the school from 315 places to 525 places.”

The consultation period ends this Sunday, October 23, and members of the public are urged to give their views.

To take part in the consultation, email views to schoolplanningandpolicy@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk.