CONSULTATION has begun on plans to open a new primary school in Redbridge.

Residents are currently being asked for their views on plans to build the school on the site of the current Ilford Jewish Primary School, in Barkingside.

The proposals were put forward by the local authority as the demand for primary school places increases.

A council spokesman said: “This is part of a wider strategy to deal with the pressure on primary school places in the borough, which has already seen a number of local school expansions.

“An opportunity has arisen for the council to acquire the Ilford Jewish Primary School site following a decision by the school to relocate to a new site.”

It is proposed the current school will relocate to the same site as King Solomon High School.

The new school will cater for 120 pupils and, if the council is successful in buying the site, it is expected to open for reception aged children in September 2011.

A competition is being run by the local authority to invite providers to put forward proposals for the new primary school.

All views expressed during the consultation will be reported to cabinet later this year.

The consultation closes at 5pm on May 21.

To take part, residents can either attend public meetings at the school, email newprimaryschool@redbridge.co.uk, or complete an online response form at redbridge.gov.uk

Meetings will be held at the school at 4pm or 7pm on April 22.