COUNTY Council education chiefs have admitted that three primary schools in Preston could close in the next five years.

Lancashire County Council (LCC) education bosses want to slash the number of surplus primary places in two of the town's poorest areas.

And a county council spokesman today said: "It is a possibility that there could well be amalgamations."

Talks have already started after it was revealed primary schools in the Central and Eastern wards of Preston have 798 unfilled places out of a total of 5,257 available.

And it is believed this 'surplus' figure could double in the next four years with almost a third of available places unfilled.

While the three schools have not been disclosed it is understood the headteachers concerned have been informed.

Schools in the catchment area which could come in for the chop include Fishwick County Primary, Brookfield Community Primary, Frenchwood Community Primary and Greenlands County Primary in Ribbleton.

Once a decision has been made the three schools could close and be amalgamated into one, larger school.

County councillor Alan Whittaker, cabinet member for education and young people, played down rumours of the possible schools closure saying: "The Local Education Authority produces a School Organisation Plan which identifies the need to either add or remove school places.

"The current plan identifies the possible need to remove 7,800 primary school places by 2006."

But before a final decision is made by LCC, other options are being considered. Coun Whittaker said: "A number of strategies are being adopted such as removal of temporary accommodation.

"A report on February 26 will set out proposed arrangements for consulting about possible options and how we might move forward."

But the council is upbeat about the outcome of the move arguing surplus places use up cash which could be better spent on helping children attending other schools.

A county council spokesman said: "Removing surplus places means more money being spent by each school on teacher's books and equipment which would directly benefit pupils.

"The review will offer an opportunity to create the best conditions for improving educational standards.

"It could lead to improved buildings, better teaching resources and new buildings for parents and communities to get involved with the running of their schools."