Planning permission has been granted for a new £4.7 million expansion of Ilkley Grammar School.

Bradford planning officers have approved the scheme, which will see the construction of a new teaching block with 15 classrooms, dining and flexible learning space, including ancillary support and service areas.

It also gives permission for the removal of three existing temporary classroom blocks and the reinstatement of a former car park area with 13 spaces and demolition of Block 10.

The site for the additional teaching and learning facilities is currently occupied by a multi-use games area in the north-east corner of the school campus.

The site for the additional car parking spaces is in the north-west of the school’s main vehicle entrance, which is currently occupied by two temporary classrooms.

In December 2016, Bradford Council agreed a major capital investment of £4.7million to expand the current site of the school in Cowpasture Road.

The decision was designed to enable the school to cope with a rising demand for secondary school places in the Wharfe Valley.

Forecasts show Ilkley Grammar School could have a shortfall of 118 places by 2020.

The approved expansion will allow the school to increase its intake of students from 261 to 300 a year from September 2019, for which funding has been approved.

The school currently has capacity for 1,558 pupils, including its sixth form provision.

Head teacher Helen Williams spoke of her excitement over the granting of planning permission.

She said: “IGS is thrilled that the planning application for the construction of a new three-storey block has been successful and we now look forward to the plans becoming a reality.

“The creation of 15 new classrooms, alongside an additional dining hall and indoor flexible space, will undoubtedly enhance the environment for students and staff.”

She added that the investment would also be a boost to the school’s science and creative arts facilities.

“The £4.7 million is a significant capital investment from Bradford Council, and we are delighted that it will not only finance additional accommodation to meet the needs of our growing student numbers, but will also support extensive refurbishment, particularly to science and creative arts.

“Indeed, whilst we are a school with a long and proud history dating back to 1607, we are committed to providing modern facilities and a stimulating learning environment for our learners.”