STRETFORD pupils could benefit from a new games area and extra classroom space if plans to extend their school are approved.

Gorse Hill Primary School, at Burleigh Road, is seeking permission from the authority to build a two-storey extension and a multi use games area (MUGA).

The surrounding fence will also be replaced with 2.1m railings and new gates,  along with a pedestrian entrance from Cavendish Road .

The planning documents stated: “The existing classrooms are very small and fall below the minimum recommended size set by the Department of Education.

“A number of classrooms have been extended internally over the years, but this has meant that the school is now short of specialist teaching areas set out by the national curriculum.

“The extension will free up rooms within the existing school and allow them to reorganise a number of areas to provide specialist teaching areas.”

The report continued: “If the plans are approved a further 50 pupils will be introduced into the school over a five year period.”

However, neighbours are concerned about the potential noise and disturbance that could arise from the new MUGA and pollution from lighting.

In addition, they fear the games area could attract people to the site ‘after school hours’ which could also disturb residents.

Neighbours have also labelled the new fence ‘unattractive’.

In response, the school confirmed that no floodlighting will be erected at the MUGA and, as such, the proposal would not result in any light pollution.

In addition, the MUGA would only be used by the school on weekdays between 9am – 5pm.

Planning officers have recommended the scheme be approved.

The application is scheduled to be discussed by members of Trafford Council’s planning committee on Thursday.