Steve DownesMore than nine out of 10 people are so far in favour of a �20m academy to replace Costessey High School.Consultation is underway on the plan for an academy, which would open in the existing buildings in September before moving to a new development on the same site within a few years.Steve Downes

More than nine out of 10 people are so far in favour of a �20m academy to replace Costessey High School.

Consultation is underway on the plan for an academy, which would open in the existing buildings in September before moving to a new development on the same site within a few years.

According to a report to Norfolk County Council's children's services overview and scrutiny panel on Thursday, the public consultation, which runs until March 24, has been largely positive so far.

Tim Newton, senior development manager, told members 'over 90pc' of respondents were in favour of the plan, under lead sponsor Ormiston Trust alongside strategic partners the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospitals NHS Trust, the county council and Hobart High School at Loddon.

Consultation is also going on for an academy to replace Oriel High at Gorleston, with 'over 80pc' in favour so far.

The Gorleston Academy is also led by Ormiston Trust, alongside partners the county council and Gresham's School at Holt.

Rachel de Souza, principal of Barnfield West Academy in Luton, will lead the academy at Costessey if it gets the go-ahead, while Nicole McCartney, deputy principal of Barnfield West Academy, will lead the project at Gorleston.