MP in call for a new school for Felpham

Mr Gibb will be joined at the session with the county council officers by representatives of the residents opposed to plans to extend Downview Primary School.

He said he expected the meeting to be held soon at County Hall. It will be followed by a third residents’ meeting, which he will chair, to discuss the outcome.

Mr Gibb, the MP for Bognor Regis and Littlehampton, said he believed a new school on Felpham’s site six development was the best solution to the need for more school places in the area.

“A site for a school has been made available by the developer. It would be far better if it was built for a one or two form entry rather than try to expand the existing school that was not designed for a three form entry,” he said.

The site six developer also provided £850,000 towards the cost of the school to be added to money from the county council. There was the prospect of government cash if a free school was opened.

Residents around the current Wroxham Way school are worried the traffic problems they suffer during term times will be worsened if pupil numbers increase by 50 per cent to some 600.

“It seems to me that none of the solutions suggested – new double yellow lines or extended lines or a new road to the A259 – are likely,” said Mr Gibb. “They will either not be enforced or will be too costly.”

A second meeting about the matter was held in Felpham last Friday after one in July.