EXTRA high fences are to be built around a new special needs primary school in Thornbury to tackle vandalism and reduce litter.

The 2.4metre high fences and balustrade gates will be erected around Gillingstool Primary School, which is being merged with New Siblands School and rebuilt as a mixed primary school for mainstream and special needs pupils.

The controversial fencing has been given the go-ahead by South Gloucestershire Council to help the new school combat costly vandalism.

In a joint statement, Gillingstool headteacher Clive Riches and New Siblands headteacher Paul Casson said: "The Gillingstool site has for many years suffered from serious incursion, vandalism and dangerous litter. Staff regularly have to clear broken glass, tin cans, used condoms, used needles and other substance abuse paraphernalia.

"The average amount of vandalism over the last four years is running at around £3,000 per year.

"Pupils with severe learning difficulties are largely unaware of danger associated with the risky environment and they would, for example, handle these risk-laden items and some children may even chew or ingest them. There is a danger of them impaling themselves on used needles."

Police liaison officer David Ashford has insisted the fences should be higher than average to deter vandals.

Cllr Clare Fardell (Lib Dem, Thornbury North) said: "There is no dispute that this field has been misused and once we have a special school using it as well that is really not acceptable.

"But it is felt these fences are so utilitarian. We are going to be looking into an enclosure, a bit like a zoo.

"I hope something can be done that makes it look like a school we are proud of and not one you enter at your own risk."

Thornbury Town Council said: "The type and height of the fencing is in excess of what is deemed necessary for its designated purpose. The fencing itself is visually obtrusive and totally out of keeping with the character of the street scene."

Councillors agreed to grant planning permission for the fences and gates on condition the school would try to lessen their impact with landscaping and welcome signs.