Pupil numbers could rise at another four primary schools across the district to meet increasing demand for school places as Bradford’s population continues to rise.

A widespread consultation is under way on school admissions, which could lead to the expansion of some schools and changes in admissions policies.

Parents, governing bodies, school staff, the Catholic and Church of England diocese, the Muslim Association and other relevant authorities are being consulted.

The consultation, which started this week and ends on January 27, includes proposals to increase the admission number at four primary schools – Ashlands in Ilkley, Idle CE, Ingrow and Wycliffe CE, Shipley.

Coun Ralph Berry, the Council’s executive member for children and young people’s services, said: “We are very keen to hear the views of a wide range of people on these proposals. Bradford has a growing population and the Council is working with schools to provide the places required.”

The proposal is for the Published Admission Number (PAN) at Ashlands to increase from 45 to 60 places, at Idle CE and Ingrow from 30 to 60 places and at Wycliffe CE from 30 to 45 places.

A second consultation is for the expansion of school premises where admission numbers have already been agreed.

This applies to 19 primary schools which are: All Saints’ CE (60 to 90 places), Brackenhill (30 to 60), Carrwood (30 to 60), Crossley Hall (60 to 90), Hoyle Court (30 to 45), Iqra (60 to 90), Killinghall (60 to 90), Ley Top (45 to 60), Margaret McMillan (60 to 90), Peel Park (60 to 90), Princeville (60 to 90), Ryecroft 30 to 60), Southmere (30 to 60), St James Church (30 to 60), Thackley (45 to 60), Thornton (60 to 90), Trinity All Saints (30 to 60), Westminster CE (60 to 90) and Woodside (30 to 60).

The proposal is that building work to further enlarge the schools is progressed as soon as possible once capital resources have been secured.

Any comments or suggestions should be sent to Nina Mewse in School Organisation and Place Planning, Future House, Bolling Road, Bradford BD4 7EB by Friday January 27 or by e-mail at educationconsultation@bradford.gov.uk.

Read more on this story in today's T&A