A Mid Sussex primary school is to move because it does not have enough pupils to fill its existing building.

The number of classes at Blackwell Primary School in East Grinstead has steadily declined in recent years.

Now West Sussex County Council has announced plans to build a smaller building nearby, at the Blackwell Farm Road end of the playing field.

Building work could start in early 2003 and pupils are expected to move into their new school during spring term 2004.

The decision to build a new school was taken after a report revealed the school-age population in East Grinstead was declining and would result in 500 surplus primary school places in the town.

The project will be financed by selling part of the school site, probably for housing.

The plans are dependent on the council getting permission from the Department for Education and Skills to sell the land.

Local residents will be invited to hear the proposals at a meeting after the planning application is submitted, probably during spring term 2002.

The project will include a large lay-by in Blackwell Farm Road for dropping off and picking up children and, in addition to the existing playground, a floodlit multi-use games area which will be available for community use.