The MoD site on Warminster Road will now include an improved primary school alongside 100 new homes.

Hundreds of local people took part in a consultation on the future of the sites. It was clear that residents want more primary school places in Bathwick and better facilities at St Mary’s.

The Liberal Democrats running BathNES Council changed the development plans to insist that St Mary’s Primary is extended, or a new school built to cope with the demand for places. It will up to the governors of St Mary’s, the developers and the Council to agree the best solution.

The scheme will also include 100 homes, of which a third will be affordable, public open spaces, a new bridge over the canal and, at residents’ requests, a local shop.

“The new school is excellent news and proves that the council listens to residents’ views,” said local Lib Dem Cllr Nicholas Coombes, “we are also very pleased that the design and environmental standards have been improved at our request.”