THE trust that will manage the primary school in the new Barton Park development was decided by councillors yesterday.

The Cheney Academy Trust, which runs Bayard’s Hill Primary School in Barton and Cheney School in Headington, was picked by Oxfordshire County Council to run the new school.

Deputy council leaderRodney Rose recommended the trust would be best to provide for the 315-place primary school.

The decision will need approval from the regional schools commissioner.

Mr Rose said: “I have had a complete briefing on this and I agree with the recommendation put forward.

“The officer explained to me what the case is and I’m happy with that.”

Roy Leach, school organisations and planning manager, added the regional schools commissioner had “in principle agreed in advance”.

He said: “The integration of the Barton community is a high priority of the county council and having both primary schools within the same academy trust are great advantages.

“The schools in Barton will be distinct but will be complementary, children in Barton will benefit and be able to access the facilities of both.”

The proposal was put forward at the delegated decisions by cabinet member for children, education and families meeting at County Hall by deputy leader Mr Rose, as cabinet member Melinda Tilley was unable to attend.

The commissioner’s final decision will be made after May 7 and will take into account exam results from both trust schools.