Work to tackle the shortage of primary school places in North Swindon has received a boost after Swindon Borough Council and the Swindon North MP worked together to guarantee an extra £8million government funding.

Swindon Borough Council's cabinet will consider a report at its meeting next week (Wednesday 13 February) which will look at the options for building a 26-place temporary class in advance of a permanent 420-place school on a site off Pioneer Road, Oakhurst.

Swindon Borough Council leader Cllr Roderick Bluh said: "I am very pleased that working with the MP and the Department for Children, Schools and Families we are now able to identify sufficient funding to enable the school to go ahead."

Cllr Bluh added: "A viable temporary class for reception children is our key consideration, and this will clearly need to link closely to a provision of a new school which is likely to cost around £7million."

Cllr Justin Tomlinson, "I have worked extremely hard with local residents to make sure PS7 was made a priority for both Swindon Council and the Government who are responsible for funding new schools.  PS7 is essential for Oakhurst residents."

"In addition I am delighted that the Conservative Councillors across the Northern Sector were successful in securing an additional 120 school places across Abbey Meads, Catherine Wayte, Haydonleigh & St Francis.  We are very grateful for the support of these local schools in delivering much needed the additional places."

"I will continue to do all I can to keep local residents updated with any further information."