The choice of the site — which is in Upper Warren Avenue and was bought by the EFA in June — has been highly controversial, with neighbours arguing it is unsuitable for a 350-place school.

Reading East MP Rob Wilson says he has now reached an agreement with the Government body to delay the appointment of contractors for the site for eight weeks, allowing it time to thoroughly assess the suitability of alternative locations.

Mr Wilson said: "As a result of my strong representations following the public meeting I chaired in June, the Education Funding Agency made a concession to me that it will consider an alternative community agreed location - subject to the usual conditions regarding value for money.

"The EFA has widened its research to include other as yet unspecified sites, either suggested by the public, new sites that have become available or through looking again at other credible options. I am greatly encouraged as I sense a real desire on the part of the EFA to help."

The primary school, which was approved by the Department for Education in May, is set to open on a temporary site at the former Caversham Nursery in September, with the EFA hoping to submit a planning application for the High Ridge site later this year.

After the surveys have been carried out, Mr Wilson says he will call a public meeting to canvas residents' views, which he will then put to new Education Secretary Nicky Morgan.