Plans for a new school in Stotfold are set to go ahead as Central Bedfordshire Council’s executive has given approval for the release of land off Arlesey Road.

The development of the new Pix Brook Academy is still subject to the necessary planning permission being granted, however the Bedfordshire Schools Trust has big plans for the site.

The academy will be a co-educational, extended secondary free school, providing an education for children between the ages of nine and 16.

There will be 1,260 pupil places when at capacity for the new school which is likely to open in September 2019.

BEST submitted a proposal for the new academy in 2016 in response to an increased demand for local school places, and to ensure continuity and certainty for local families.

The proposal was agreed by the Department of Education in May this year.

Since then, BEST and CBC have been working together to find a suitable site.

Executive member for education and skills, Councillor Steven Dixon, said: “Central Bedfordshire is a very attractive destination for families, which has created an additional demand for school places in Stotfold and the surrounding towns and villages.

“That is why the council was happy to grant executive approval to release land off Arlesey Road for the new Pix Brook Academy so that, subject to planning permission being granted, work can begin on a much-needed new school.”

The academy will be named after the brook which runs near to the site, and will provide much needed school places.

Chief executive of BEST Dr Alan Lee said: “All at BEST are thrilled to be working in partnership with Central Bedfordshire to open the Pix Brook Academy.

“At the heart of the community and closely aligned to existing lower school provision, Pix Brook will always put children first, enabling all to flourish and enjoy fullness of life.”

The educational offer at Pix Brook will follow national guidelines but its backers hope partnership working with other schools in the Trust and local schools will allow it to deliver an outstanding educational. experience. for students.