A NORTH Dorset village could be in line for a new school to cope with an influx of extra pupils.

Education chiefs are currently working out detailed costings for a primary school in Pimperne to replace the existing first school.

Under school re-organisation plans for the Blandford area, it had been thought the building would be extended to take the additional 50 children who will start over the next two years.

But officers are now believed to favour a new school option.

Education officer at Dorset County Council Peter Robson said: "Following the initial consultation, we came up with the view that it would be possible, although difficult, to extend the school on its existing site.

"Once it was agreed that re-organisation would go ahead we looked at it again in greater detail and one of the proposals was to have a complete rebuild on another site.

"It looks like the best long-term cost option."

Negotiations with the owner of the land earmarked for the new school were taking place, he said.

If approved, Mr Robson said the chances of the new school being ready by September 2006 were "not that bright."

"The school has said it would be quite happy as they will be able to carry on in their existing home until the new building is ready," he added.

Chairman of the governors Mike Oliver said he welcomed the idea.

"The current school buildings are neither suitable nor large enough for a primary school with an extra 50 pupils," he added.

First published: May 10