ELEVEN Bournemouth primary schools are facing expansion following a forecast increase in pupil numbers.

Almost 200 extra places will be needed by September 2010 with a further 180 by the same time the following year.

Consultation so far has identified nine possible schools for the first phase with Heathlands Primary likely to take an extra 15 pupils and a further six taking 30 each.

Those under consideration are King’s Park, Elmrise, Queen’s Park Infants, Kingsleigh, Winton, Christ the King, Pokesdown and Kinson.

Schools proposed to increase by 30 pupils in 2011 include St Michael’s, Corpus Christi, St Katharine’s and Muscliff.

Head teachers, governing bodies and Diocesan boards have all been consulted but more detailed consultation will now take place.

“A number of these schools will benefit from major refurbishments if these plans go ahead” said Cllr Malcolm Davies, cabinet member for education and children’s services.

“The next step is to undertake detailed consultation with all interested parties including governing bodies, parents and families, teachers and staff, trade unions, school trustees and council members.”

The extra pupils will be accommodated in a number of different ways, including new buildings, temporary accommodation and existing accommodation.

If the plans go ahead, Elmrise, Queen’s Park Infants and King’s Park will benefit from major refurbishment. Heathlands and Pokesdown will accommodate pupils within their existing buildings and the remainder would use temporary accommodation.

Education chiefs became aware of the need for extra places this summer when they received birth rate figures. Immigration also counts for some of the need.

The north west of Bournemouth and the town centre were identified as being in particular need of extra places.

The proposals will go before Bournemouth’s Cabinet tomorrow.