Four schools are to be reformed under county council plans agreed last week.

The Peartree Spring Infant School and Peartree Spring Junior School in Stevenage are set to merge to form a single primary school.

Giles Infant and Nursery School, also in the town, is set to be expanded by one form of entry, which could see 30 more pupils start at the school in September 2014 who would later move on to Giles Junior School.

The Peartree merger was agreed by Hertfordshire County Council (HCC) following a six-week consultation that showed support from parents and stakeholders. All existing staff will continue to be employed in equivalent posts to those they currently hold.

Chris Hayward, cabinet member for education at HCC, said: “This will create one cohesive educational establishment, ensuring a more consistent experience for the children as they pass through their primary years of education.”

A number of concerns have been raised regarding the Giles Infant and Nursery School expansion, including the impact on roads and safety measures given the increase in traffic.

HCC say they have yet to receive any objections from the school’s governing body and its decision is conditional upon planning permission being granted.

Mr Hayward added: “Our priority is to ensure there is a school place for every child that wants one so that they can continue to attend a local school in a community close to where they live.”