BOVEY Tracey could be set to have a new 420-pupil primary school before the end of the decade, if fresh survey work proves positive.
The hoped-for project would take shape on land owned by Bovey Tracey Town Council off Le Molay-Littry Way, allowing the growing community to replace an ageing 280-pupil campus in Abbey Road.
The idea has been mooted for some time but has recently taken a step forward after Teignbridge District Council (TDC) funded an initial feasibility study, carried out by Devon County Council.
This has confirmed that further surveys, expected to take a year, are required to provide essential ecological information and a more accurate cost estimate.
A TDC statement to the Town Council said: ‘The completion of this initial feasibility design work does not act as a commitment by Teignbridge District Council and Devon County Council to fund nor deliver this project, however you will be kept up to date on the progress of any such decision making. Delivering a new school is a long-term project. If the surveys, design, permissions, and funding can be secured, delivery of a school may be possible by 2029.’
Mayor Cllr Sheila Brooke said: ‘We’re keeping everything crossed that the next survey will deliver the results we want and allow Bovey Tracey to develop the primary school it needs.
‘The site, if it can go ahead, would also provide additional outdoor facilities for the whole community so this is a really important project for our town.
‘We thank Teignbridge and Devon for their efforts so far and hope we can secure the promise of a new school in advance of any changes that might come about as a result of the Local Government Review.
‘We’re not counting our chickens but are excited for a positive outcome and we’ll keep residents updated as and when any new information reaches us.’
The current school site might possibly be earmarked for an older people’s housing scheme.
Cllr Brooke said: ‘We are very keen to see it put to a use that meets Bovey’s needs and not those of a commercial developer. That’s a message we’ll repeat loud and clear for as long as it takes.’
The site of the proposed school is opposite the entrance to De Tracey Park and is currently accessed by a track known as Bucks Lane.
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