ANGRY parents are holding a "picnic protest" against plans to cut the number of places for new pupils at seven primary schools.

Families of children currently at the affected schools will gather at the Level before walking to Brighton town hall, accompanied by a samba band, to campaign against the city council’s idea - which aims to reduce surplus spaces.

Mitchie Alexander, of the School Places Campaign group said: “It’s going to have a huge impact.

“We’re worried there won’t be any available spaces.”

Campaigners fear slashing excess places will cause classes to be combined.

The maximum number of pupils per class at Key Stage One is 30 – year groups over this amount could be split and combined with other years.

Particular concern surrounds schools with a high number of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

Surplus spaces mean SEND pupils access an “appropriate” amount of time with their teachers in a comfortable environment.

“Children with hearing loss come from all over the city to Bevendean primary”, added Mitchie.

“But parents are really worried they won’t be able to understand what’s going on.”

The affected schools are located in some of the most deprived areas of Brighton and Hove. Schools from other areas in the city rejected the plans.

The Argus: Green councillor Hannah Clare expects schools to face financial difficultyGreen councillor Hannah Clare expects schools to face financial difficulty

A report with council’s findings from public consultation will be published next week.

Green councillor Hannah Clare said: “We are committed to keeping all our schools open if we possibly can.

“But the council has no budget for keeping schools open where pupil number forecasts suggest schools may encounter serious financial difficulties.”

Councillors will make their final decision on proposals at a special meeting on Monday, 31 January.