PUPILS have been left stranded in temporary classrooms after councillors deferred granting planning permission for The Wren School.

At a council meeting on Wednesday, Reading Borough Councillors wanted officers to conduct a traffic study report before they granted permission for the new six form entry secondary school.

For the 73 Year Seven pupils who started at the school, on the former Elvian School site, in September, it means they will have to continue to learn in temporary classrooms.

The application looks to redevelop the existing school building, grounds and playing field with 118 dwellings.

However councillors were concerned, after objectors raised concerns over the amount of traffic which will emanate from the site.

Another concern, which Cllr Tony Page flagged, was the credibility of the planning officer's report as it indicated that a school of over 1,000 pupils would have virtually no impact on the traffic flow in the area.

Chair of the meeting, Cllr Chris Maskell, said: "We are not seeking to refuse what is proposed in terms of the development but as with previous applications we have concerns in this case around traffic.

"We have a duty to be sure and safe about the decision we make."

After the meeting, Nils Franke, director of the school's trust, said: "I am pleased that the councillors considered the scheme from every angle. The Committee noted the benefits to education and housing and took onboard residents' wishes for clarification and partial amendment of traffic-related proposals."

"What seemed apparent is that the 'the bigger picture' of the application is that it delivers more choice in education and housing in Reading."