PLANS to build a 2.4 metre high fence around the grounds of a primary school are likely to be approved this week, despite objections from neighbours.

Addingham Primary School had applied to build the wire mesh fence “to secure the site against intruders and improve the safeguarding of the staff and pupils.”

The application has attracted 12 objections, including that the fence would be an “unattractive feature” and “not appropriate for Addingham.”

One of the objectors is the Addingham Civic Society.

The application will be decided by Bradford Council’s Keighley Area Planning Panel, meeting in Keighley town hall at 10am on Wednesday.

Planning officers have recommended the application be approved, saying much of the fence would be covered by vegetation in parts. Their report adds: " It is acknowledged that this proposal has not arisen as a result of an Ofsted report or any specific threats. However, the applicant says that with more schools utilising outdoor areas to help facilitate learning, the need for safe and secure fencing continues to grow.

"Whilst people’s concerns regarding the effects on local character and the setting of the school are understood, the effects of the safeguarding fence on visual amenity are not considered to be so substantial as to warrant refusal."