TWO primary schools have been asked to review their security plans -- because of fears they would look like factories.

Governors at High Lawn School, Sharples, and St Teresa's, Little Lever, asked if they could install fences with metal bars to keep vandals at bay.

But neighbours said the buildings would look "too industrial" and feared their house prices would be affected.

Councillors on Bolton Council's planning committee have now asked the Local Education Authority and Salford Catholic Diocese to look at the plans again. They have asked them to consider installing fences made from welded mesh, which would look better while providing the same level of security.

Cllr John Walsh told the meeting: "I want schools to be secure but I fear this application will suffer if they insist on that type of fencing.

"High Lawn School is a prominent site and you can see it on the skyline. It would stand out far less if the other type of fencing was used." Other councillors said the security of schools in Bolton was a high priority, but said they felt welded-mesh fences would look better and draw less complaints. It is difficult to climb over the welded-mesh fences and they are transparent so people could see if vandals are inside the school grounds.

There is not a great deal of cost between the two types of fence.

The LEA suggested metal bar fences should be put round three-quarters of High Lawn School, with an ornamental fence at the front. The Salford Catholic Diocese suggested metal bar fences could be put around three quarters of St Teresa's School, with a welded-mesh fence at the front. Both the LEA and the diocese will now be asked to re-consider.