A Widnes primary school wants to install a new security fence because its existing one is too small to keep out potential intruders.

St Gerard’s Roman Catholic Primary and Nursery School on Lugsdale Road has submitted an application to Halton Borough Council to install a 2.4m high security mesh fence and gates. It would replace an existing 2m-high fence and gates.

A design and access statement submitted in support of the plans said the higher fencing and gates would create a ‘robust and effective’ security barrier ensuring the 'safety and security of the school's pupils, staff, and property'.

One additional access point would be created from the proposed works on the junction of Lugsdale Road and Quinn Street via the extended section of boundary fencing which will have a single pedestrian gate installed.

The design and access statement said: "The purpose of this project is to enhance the security of the school premises and safety of school pupils.

“At present, unauthorised access into the school can be achieved via the existing 2m high boundary fencing not being sufficiently high enough."

It said all new access points would have self-closers and maglocks with the exception of the vehicular access gates which will be automatic with an intercom.

The statement added: "Aside from this, in principle the proposed works will not affect the existing access parameters to the school, only improve mitigating any unauthorised access via the installation of both higher boundary fencing and gates."