THIS week Castle School has finally submitted a planning application for the redevelopment of its sixth form building.

A re-work of the existing site has been needed for some time and as long as funding is secured by the school then work should get started in the not too distant future.

The existing historical building is a wonderful landmark on Gloucester Road so it is important that they keep it as close to the original as possible – which the plans would indicate is the case.

The existing sixth form site is not big enough for an expanding and ambitious sixth form so the submission of the planning application is good news for the school.

With hundreds of new homes either in the planning stages or under construction in Thornbury there will need to be an increased level of amenities offered in the town.

Included in this is the need for the potential maximum capacity at nearby secondary schools to be increased.

Whether or not anyone likes it, new homes are on the way for Thornbury and basic facilities such as education and health will need to be able to keep up with the inevitable increase in demand for their services.

Castle School’s recognition that the current sixth form building is in keeping with the tradition of the town and appreciated by the residents, and their decision to preserve its appearance from the road, is a step in the right direction and setting a good example for housing developers to follow.