A FOURTH primary school in Laindon has launched a bid to expand.

Janet Duke, in Markhams Chase, has been forced to hold group workshops in corridors due to a lack of space.

It has now drawn up plans to build a new library and two extra classrooms, which will be used for group activities.

The extension, which would be built at the back of the existing building, would also include new toilets and cloakrooms.

Planning agent Paul Wright, from Harwich-based Zero Five Architects, submitted an application on behalf of the Janet Duke school.

He said: “Consultations with the headteacher identified a genuine need to improve the facilities at the school to ensure that current and future educational standards are met.

“Currently much of the targeted group learning is carried out in corridorswhich is not ideal, and is also a health and safety hazard.

Being thoroughfares, learning is often disrupted.

“The new extension will relieve these conditions and provide a basis for improving the school facilities.”

The Janet Duke school has 577 children on its roll, aged from four to 11. The extension will not create any more pupil spaces.

The bid comes as work is underway to create six new classrooms, a hall, gym and swimming pool at Lee Chapel Primary School, in The Knares.

It will allow the school to take on an extra 122 pupils, bringing the intake up to 630, and create eight new jobs. Meanwhile, Laindon Park Primary School, has also asked for permission to build an overflow classroom and two activity rooms, which would be hired out to community groups in the evenings and weekends.

Last month, the Echo revealed Millhouse Junior School, in Tavistock Road, wants to build a new classroom and separate group activity room.

Planning officers at Essex County Council are expected to make a decision on the Janet Duke school proposals by July.