Hammersmith and Fulham Council is set to consult residents on plans to manage primary school places across the borough.
The council's Cabinet has approved the launch of a public consultation on a draft School Organisation Plan, which aims to address a sustained fall in pupil numbers leading to surplus capacity in primary schools. The consultation will gather views on the case for change, the draft plan, guiding principles, and potential options such as reducing pupil admission numbers, federating schools, amalgamations, or closures.
The decision to consult comes as the borough faces a significant surplus of 1,520 primary school places, representing 15.6% of capacity as of October 2025. Forecasts indicate this surplus could increase to around 2,000 places, or 22%, by 2028/29 if no action is taken.
Councillor Alex Sanderson, Deputy Leader responsible for Children and Education, stated that the consultation is crucial for testing the case for change and understanding the impact on pupils, families, staff, and communities. He emphasised that no final decisions have been made and that the consultation aims to gather views before any statutory proposals are brought forward.
The consultation approach will be inclusive, seeking input from parents and carers, pupils where appropriate, school staff, trade unions, governors, responsible bodies, diocesan partners, academy trusts, neighbouring schools, SEND and admissions partners, ward councillors, and local community stakeholders. Materials will be made available in accessible formats and translated where necessary.
If approved by Cabinet, the consultation is scheduled to take place in autumn 2026, with a review of responses and further recommendations expected in early 2027. This managed approach aims to protect educational quality, inclusion, and financial sustainability within the borough's primary school estate.