A school is proposing to increase its intake of pupils to meet the needs of the area’s growing population.

The Leigh Academy has begun plans to expand its numbers at its site in Green Street Green Road, Dartford.

The mixed school is hoping to grow its published admission number (PAN) from 270 pupils to 300 from September 2026.

Run by Leigh Academies Trust (LAT), it has a total of 1,359 pupils on its books aged 11 to 19.

It converted to an academy in September 2007, having been the Leigh City Technology College since 1990.

Its Year 7 had already increased last September from 240 to 270.

A consultation is now under way to receive parents’ and residents’ views on the plans and ends at midday on March 28.

LAT’s Richard Taylor says initial assessments indicate the school would be able to expand its intake in the coming years.

He said: "Leigh Academies Trust is excited to announce the commencement of a public consultation regarding the proposed expansion of The Leigh Academy's PAN.

"This initiative aligns with our commitment to providing high-quality education to a greater number of students in response to the anticipated population growth in the Dartford area.

"The proposed expansion is in direct response to the new housing developments planned for Dartford, which are expected to significantly increase local population and, consequently, the demand for secondary school places.

"Kent County Council (KCC) has identified the need to augment the number of available school places to accommodate this future demand.

"Leigh Academies Trust, in collaboration with The Leigh Academy's staff and governors, is proposing to expand the school to meet these needs effectively."

The Trust's people and communications director continued: "Preliminary assessments confirm sufficient space for the proposed expansion.

"Detailed planning and design consultations are under way to ensure the development not only accommodates the increased student numbers, but also enhances the existing facilities."

Once the consultation period finishes, a report summarising its feedback will be presented to KCC's children, young people and education cabinet committee to determine whether funding is granted.

If given the green light, work on a new building to support the increased number of pupils will begin in spring 2025.

Formed in 2008, the LAT operates 31 academies and encompasses 20,000 pupils and more than 3,500 staff across the south east.

Cllr Ricky Jones says he backs the plans – provided those in the community are behind them too.

The Labour representative for Princes ward said: "I would welcome an expansion if it does happen.

"But of course we would want all residents to be happy with the decision should it go ahead."