A NEW grammar school could be built off the A127 near Dunton, it has been revealed.

Phil Turner, the leader of Basildon Council, told how the authority has begun “tentative discussions” with an existing grammar school to open a new campus.

The Echo understands that land on fields between Basildon and Brentwood, earmarked for thousands of homes in the latest local plan, could include the new school.

It comes as Theresa May’s government begins the process of lifting an 18-year ban on opening new selective schools.

Conservative Mr Turner says he is unable to reveal the name of the grammar school currently in discussions with the authority, but believes it could happen on the site.

He said: “Whether it’s a new grammar school, or an extension of an existing grammar school, we have made no secret of our wish to bring one to Basildon.

“They give mobility to our youngsters, and I don’t regard them as elitist.

“I am looking to advance discussions with a school about opening a campus in Basildon.”

If the government’s plans get the go ahead, every school in England will have the opportunity to convert to a grammar or selective school, including both state comprehensives and academies.

Meanwhile Thurrock Council revealed it is “building momentum” towards a grammar school opening in the borough.

James Halden, Thurrock councillor responsible for education, said the authority would be looking at building an entirely new grammar school if funding from the government’s £50 million came good.

He said: “We want Thurrock thinking about Thurrock in terms of a borough that is really up for this, which is why we are building momentum around the proposals.

“The fact of the matter is that we want Thurrock seen as a forward-thinking borough. We are showing ourselves as the kind of borough which has got big ambitions.

“Kids in Southend have got four grammar schools, and we have got kids in Thurrock we might not be able to move to that area to go to a grammar school.

“Kids in Southend do have an advantage over kids in Thurrock, and we need to level the playing field.”

Linda Allport-Hodge, Ukip leader on Basildon Council, believes a new grammar school in Basildon could also serve Thurrock youngsters.

Mrs Allport-Hodge, councillor for Langdon Hills said: “I think that site in the local plan would be perfect for both Thurrock and Basildon, because of where it is placed.

“I am a big believer in social mobility, and a grammar school would do just that.”

Ray Gooding, county councillor responsible for education, says he welcomes the contribution of grammar schools, but insists the authority currently has no plans to open a new one.

He said: “There are currently no plans to create new grammar schools in Essex, however we will continue to monitor any proposals the government make.”