Brent Council to offer more school places

Additional primary school places are to be made available in Brent thanks to funding from the government.

Some £30 million has been given to the local authority to ensure it can offer kids a place to learn - and the figure is the most handed out to a single body in England. It means families looking at property to rent in Brent should be able to send their children to the school they wish to.

Under the plans, Barham, Fryent and Mitchell Brook Primary Schools will all be extended to create 120 extra places. Once the programme has received the go ahead, temporary units will be constructed, while the permanent solution is worked upon and all of the work is expected to be finished by 2013.

Councillor Mary Arnold, Brent Council's lead member for children and families, said: "The council takes this issue very seriously, which is why we have been lobbying hard for funding to increase our school capacity so we are pleased we are now being listened to." She added action has been taken to ensure more places can be offered by the local authority.

The body's lead member for regeneration and major projects councillor George Crane observed he is delighted that the government is meeting the area's need for funding. "Following a strategic review, we have plans in place and if the executive approves this next week, we will start immediately on getting this extra money spent," he remarked.

Regeneration of the Brent skyline is also set to take place, as the council is seeking to build 229 new flats in the South Kilburn area. These properties will replace two 18 storey blocks, while a public square and courtyard will also be developed.

Andy Donald, director of regeneration and major projects, went on to note it is good news for the local residents as it means the demand for housing shall be met. The project will form part of phase two of the South Kilburn Regeneration Programme.

Posted by Ben Carter

Published 20th April, 2012

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