HUNDREDS OF Poole families could be affected by plans to build a new housing development and school.

The development will include a new school on the existing Hillbourne School site on Kitchener Crescent and new homes either side.

The site will feature a pre-school as well as a purpose-built sports pitch and a multi-use games area (MUGA).

Houses will be built gradually with the exact number of homes to be confirmed and subject to planning permission.

Receipts from the sale and development of the land will fund the project.

Residents, staff and parents are now being invited to attend two drop-in sessions at Hillbourne School.

They will be able to view plans for the proposed development which will include detailed designs.

A planning application is due to be submitted for the scheme at the end of this month.

Also, on show will be concepts for the housing element of the development.

At the drop in sessions, BCP Council’s project team, architects and housing officers will answer questions from the public and there will be the opportunity to put forward comments and suggestions.

Cabinet member for children and families, Cllr Sandra Moore said: “I hope as many people as possible will find the time to come along and view for themselves what we are hoping to create. The community in this part of Poole deserves a new school fit for the future and I am delighted to see this scheme progressing well. This approach is considered to be the best value for money option, whilst being least disruptive to the school which can continue to operate at its two current locations whilst work progresses.”

Cabinet member for housing, Cllr Kieron Wilson, added: “By taking a holistic approach to the site and providing a brand new housing development of around 100 homes, we are able to deliver not only the school in a cost effective way but provide much needed homes for the local community. I am pleased to support this fantastic project.”

The drop-in events take place at the school in Kitchener Crescent on Tuesday, Sept 17 between 2.30pm and 4.30pm. Then on Thursday, Sept 19 between 6pm and 8pm.