TWO Richmondshire schools have applied for planning permission to build five new classrooms in a bid to meet increased demand.

Le Cateau Community Primary School in Catterick Garrison has applied for a single storey extension to house three classrooms; while Colburn Community Primary School has applied to build a single storey building for two classrooms, cloakrooms and toilets.

The applications have been made to North Yorkshire County Council in response to the increasing population in the area as a result of large-scale house building.

At Le Cateau, the plans also include new entrance lobby, cloakrooms, toilets with 12 photovoltaic panels, an extension to existing school hall, a playground and 20 new cycle racks.

The plans state that existing school currently comprises of 16 classrooms and early years accommodation.

The application from Colburn school also proposes the refurbishment of two classrooms and the relocation of the existing multi-use games area.

Catterick Garrison and Colburn councillor Helen Grant said: “I am delighted that swift progress has been made to address the needs which have been such a cause for concern.

“The number of properties and new families in the Garrison Parishes have warranted these improvements."