OPPONENTS to the potential sale of playing fields at Pembroke Primary School are mounting pressure on Monmouthshire County Council to retain the land for the local community.

Councillors and governors outlined the developments at the school at a special meeting last week, confirming the demolition of the infants building would create "surplus land". But the working party refused to be drawn on reports that the land was to be sold off for a residential development of 100 houses, instead stressing that the meeting was purely to discuss the development of the nursery.

The silence left many parents frustrated, but some members of the delegation remain dedicated to protecting the community's asset. Cllr Pam Birchall said: "The land issue is not yet set in stone and whatever happens we want it kept for the community's use not sold off for housing."

Her sentiments have been backed by Cllr Phil Hobson, who was absent from the meeting while on holiday. He said: "On the working group I am able to shape the final plans and I believe the plans are unworkable in their current form. What we want is a safer crossing on the Bulwark Road, a new entrance at the school and new fencing to make it more secure."

Another of those in opposition to the loss of the land is school headmaster Ralph Herron. He said: "The council owns the land and if they deem it to be surplus, then we can't tell them that they can't sell the land. But what we are most concerned with is our wildlife area - and we will fight the sale of any of the schoolplaying fields.

"This was only the first stage in the consultation process. The planners have come along with their proposals as they stand at the moment and the Full Council will have to look at all the proposals and opt for one recommendation or the other."

Cllr Hobson also believes the second round of the process could offer parents the chance to reject the scheme.

Aside from the controversial land issue, the working party outlined plans for the "impressive" and "prestigious" nursery facility.

The school currently boasts 312 pupils but will be downsized to just 210, with many of the pupils being moved to The Dell. In addition, 20 special needs students would be "integrated" into classes while the nursery would allow for up to 52 youngsters.

But Mr Herron added that he remains determined to push that number up to 78.