A PRIMARY school has questioned the distribution of money donated to community schemes when a large planning application is agreed.

Bourton Primary School claims the funding purse seems to be permanently closed to them as they have received nothing when developments have been given approval.

The funding source, known as 106 legal agreements, can often secure sizeable amounts of money for the community, and while Bourton has seen recent development, Bourton Primary School has not seen any funding go its way.

Speaking at a recent meeting of the parish council, Cheryl Agg, the primary school's administrator, said it was frustrating when they needed money to expand.

"We are looking for funding to expand the school because we have seven year groups and nine classes. We have had to put a Portacabin up this summer to provide more teaching space for two classes and wondered why were were not fortunate in getting 106 money when funding has gone to other schools in the Cotswolds, she said.

The school has 215 children on roll which includes two classes of pre-school children and has just been awarded academy status.

"I have been asked about the academy status. Basically it gives us funding directly from the government rather than the county council and has just given us autonomy to manage our own finances more effectively. There is certainly no additional finances and though we can spend the money as we want, there is certainly not the amounts to expand or pay for a new roof which is something else we need. All we have received in the past is £40,000 for a small extension," said Miss Agg.

She said she had set up an advisory meeting with Gloucester Rural Community Council to look for other avenues of funding as 106 money looked unlikely and the fact they did not know what may be coming through the pipeline in the future.

Bourton Town Council chairman Councillor Bryan Sumner, said there were two developments in the town with a promise of 106 money if they go ahead, including one behind Station Road: "We, as a council, have difficulty with 106 money. It is a very murky pond, but the best way forward as far as we can see is to deal directly with the district council. We are finding our own way in these matters a little better than we used to. The planning committee may be able to tell you how you can apply but it's very much every man and woman for themselves," he said.