THERE are fears there will be chaos if the opening of a new school in Westhoughton is delayed.

work is expected to start on The Gates primary in November, but the town's council leader, David Wilkinson, is worried set-backs will cause major problems.

He said Bolton Council has given itself a very tight schedule to construct the school and pupils could be having their first lessons while the building is still going on.

Education chiefs at the town hall said they are happy with the plans and do not foresee any problems.

The Gates is due for completion on August 23 next year, with the summer term starting 11 days later.

Liberal Democrat Cllr Wilkinson said: "If there are any problems, such as bad weather, we could have a situation where staff and pupils are having to work on a building site, which is unfair.

"It is going to take a long time to get all the furniture and books in the right place and to get everyone familiar with the building."

He added: "I'm pleased things are starting to happen, but I have my doubts it will be finished on time."

A spokesman for Bolton Council said all councillors had been briefed on the progress of the school.

She added: "As far as the education department is aware the building will be completed and ready to open for the new school year in 2002.

"There is nothing to suggest this will not be the case."

The full planning permission application was submitted yesterday and it will take six to eight weeks to approve.

Nine homes are also being built near the site, off Manchester Road.

The new school will replace Fourgates and Wingates St John schools, which will amalgamate.

Access to the school and the houses will be from Bristle Hall Way.

Residents on the cul-de-sac raised concerns that opening up the street could endanger children who play outside their homes. They argued that traffic congestion could also be a problem.