THE death knell has been sounded on hopes for a new primary school at Whiteley, near Fareham.

Winchester City Council has told Hampshire County Council leader Councillor Thornber that it will not reconsider making available a small part of the land at Meadowside Recreation Ground for a new school despite it being the only option left on the table.

Councillor Thornber, who received the news in a letter, said: "I am bitterly disappointed at the decision of Winchester City Council not to sell or lease us a small part of the land at Meadowside.

"We have made every effort to thoroughly evaluate and consider all the options, but Meadowside remained our only real chance to deliver."

See tomorrow's Daily Echo for full story and reaction.