A PRIMARY school will benefit from a £1.8million boost - which will double its students intake.

Bonnygate Primary School, in Arisdale Avenue, South Ockendon, will now welcome 60 new youngsters a year, as opposed to 30.

Council leader John Kent, education portfolio holder, said the expansion meant the authority was continuing to provide enough school places in the area.

He said: “We often say education of young people is our top priority and this is a concrete example of that.

“There is £1.8 million to be invested in this school to make sure young people can have the best possible start in life.”