A scheme to extend and refurbish Barry's Ysgol Gymraeg Bro Morgannwg is set to be discussed by council planners next week.

The substantial proposals for the Colcot Road school include:

• new sports and IT block
• new design and technology block
• link 'circulation' extension
• new reception area
• Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA), comprising six tarmac courts
• 3G all-weather pitch
• coach/mini bus drop off/pick up zone

A report to Vale of Glamorgan Council's planning committee states: "The extensions are considered to be of a size and massing that are in keeping with the existing school complex, such that they would not appear over scaled in this context. "The new entrance and circulation block would be more contemporary in appearance, while the sports, IT and DT blocks would be more conventional/utilitarian in form and appearance. "The existing complex already comprises a relatively eclectic group of buildings and it is considered that the proposed designs (which each relate in appearance and character to one or more elements of the existing school) are compatible with the existing buildings and would not appear visually incongruous." The planned extensions, solely for the comprehensive part of the school, would increase pupil capacity from 1,361 to 1,660 - 250 of these sixth formers. There are currently 1,333 on the school roll, of which 1,015 are primary and secondary and 118 sixth formers. Six neighbouring properties have objected to the scheme. Concerns include adverse impact on traffic and congestion on Port Road and Colcot Road, noise pollution - particularly in respect of the outdoor pitches - light pollution and the lack of synergy between the proposal and that for next door Whitmore High School site. Barry Town Council supports the proposed development. Sport Wales believes the proposal will improve the site's sporting capacity - particularly that the new floodlit 3G pitch will allow 'greater intensity of use, including new community use, during the evenings and weekends'. However, it has raised concerns regarding playing field provision. The application will go before Vale of Glamorgan District Council planning committee on Wednesday (26 June) and is recommended for approval, subject to conditions.