PLANS to merge Hothfield and Aire View schools in Silsden have been approved by Bradford Council.

But a leading local politician voiced fears that the decision to remain on the existing two sites was a “short-term fix” for the schools’ overcrowding problems.

Cllr Andrew Mallinson, who represents Craven ward at City Hall, said it was essential council bosses forged ahead with the option of building a new joint school at a separate location in Silsden.

He added: “The council identified another site. Then they came forward about remodelling the existing sites.

“I hope this is not a short-term fix. I don’t want them to do something now on the existing sites and have to revisit it in ten years.”

The merger plans for Hothfield Junior School and Aire View Infant School were approved by Bradford Council’s ruling executive yesterday, following extensive consultation with parents.

A report presented to councillors stated the schools would become one entity in September 2017, to be known as Aire View, but would still use both of the existing sites in central Silsden.

The report revealed some additional building or remodelling would be needed before the schools could merge. The new school roll will increase massively to 630 pupils.

Cllr Susan Hinchcliffe, the executive member who oversees schools, said the merger in Silsden had been "embraced by both schools", adding: "It's the right thing to do for Silsden."