A controversial plan to merge two schools has been rejected by the Government.

Brighton and Hove City Council wanted to create a new all-through primary school in Balfour Road.

But there was strong opposition to the merger of Balfour Infant and Junior School from parents.

Adjudicator Ann Holt said the reduction of places that would eventually result from the merger would be unlikely to improve standards.

Today, those involved in the battle to prevent the merger were delighted. The Balfour Action Group Against Merger warned of a five year period of disruption to children's education.

Anna Kett, vice chairman of governors at Balfour Junior School, said: "We were reflecting the views of the parents who did not want this to happen."

A statement from the governors said: "We are relieved the uncertainty has ended and we can get back to normal again. We voted against the merger proposals and carried this forward opposing the local education authority as best we could."

Education cabinet councillor Frieda Warman-Brown said: "Although we are disappointed, we respect the decision and will support the two schools in moving forward.

"We understand there were strong views both for and against the proposals but it is important that we all work together to give the children the best possible education."

Tory opposition education spokeswoman Vanessa Brown said: "How delighted I am that common sense has prevailed. The great majority of parents, staff and governors will be over the moon about this."

The proposal was made to offer continuity of education for children, improve professional opportunities for staff and end problems caused by there being more infant places than places in the junior school.

But the council received 37 letters of support and 140 objections. The local schools organisation committee was unable to reach agreement on the issue.

Coun Pat Hawkes, who will chair the education committee from April 1, said: "We have worked scrupulously to get this process right and are deeply disappointed with the decision.

"It will not prevent us with continuing with our policy as we believe all-through primary schools have great educational benefits.

"We will continue to consult on the possibility of creating new primary schools when the head of a linked infant and junior school resigns."

Several all-through primary schools have already been created including those at Whitehawk and Moulsecoomb.