Plans for new school take 'major step' forward

Plans to create a new school have taken a "major step forward", according to Kent County Council (KCC).

The local authority said it had backed proposals to move ahead on the design and development of the new primary school in Paddock Wood.

In May, KCC voted to to support the creation of a one-form-entry school on Mascalls Court Road, which could open from 2028.

The school would cater for 700 homes completed or due to be built within three years, the Local Democracy Reporting Service reported.

KCC said the pre-school population in the area has risen by more than 40% since 2020.

It is expected to continue increasing over the next few years, it added.

"Without additional school places in the future, many local children are likely to have to travel around six miles to find a school place, often outside their immediate community," said KCC.

"A new local school will help families stay connected to their community, reduce travel, and ensure children can learn closer to home," it continued.

Beverley Fordham, cabinet member for education and skills, said that the community will have "further opportunities" to have their say though a statutory consultation.

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