IMPORTANT issues have to be addressed regarding the appearance of the planned new Silsden primary school, according to a ward councillor.

Adrian Naylor said Bradford Council’s design team must decide whether to go with an ultra-modern or traditional-looking building.

He added: “The scheme must look in keeping with its surroundings.

"It will sit in the middle of the greenbelt, so should it look traditional?"

Cllr Naylor said the appearance of the new school could also influence the design of houses on estates expected to be built in surrounding fields during the next few years.

He added: “It could set a precedent.”

Hothfield Junior School and overcrowded Aire View Infant School, both in the centre of Silsden, are due to merge in September next year.

IThe combined primary school will initially remain on the two existing sites, but Bradford Council last month announced plans to replace them with a new campus by 2018.

The council recently secured a site on fields above Daisy Hill and Silsden Park.

Cllr Naylor said: “The next stage will be talking to the governors about the merger when they return in September.”