THE number of pupils at some schools in Huddersfield is expected to fall sharply in the next five years.

Some primary and high schools could see the demand for places drop by as much as 25% by the year 2008.

But education officials are predicting that in other cases the numbers wanting places at some schools could rise by 10%.

Officials are preparing to start consultations on a major plan to deal with demand for school places.

The School Organisation Plan, which is now being drawn up, is intended to help plan education in the area.

It will look at primary schools, middle schools, high schools and special needs education.

Margaret Parker, of Kirklees Education Service, said: "When we consider the future number of school places which could be available we have to take into account the likely demand for places at all types of maintained school.

"The numbers on the roll in high schools are forecast to peak at 24,097 next year, then steadily decrease to 23,644 by 2008. Middle school numbers in north Kirklees are forecast to fall over that five-year period, while middle school numbers in south Kirklees are forecast to remain buoyant," added Ms Parker.

"There is expected to be such an overall decline in primary school numbers that surplus capacity will be an issue for the next five years."

She said there was a need to look specifically at some areas where demand for school places could rise by 10% above the existing numbers.

Equally, it was the council's intention to review the primary and high schools where there was likely to be at least 25% spare capacity.

Draft copies of the plan are to go on show at council offices and libraries across the area.

Parents and others can pass on their comments to Ms Parker, head of strategy and school support, Kirklees Education Service, Oldgate House, Huddersfield HD1 6QW by Friday, October 24.

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