Richmond Council has warned that the Department for Education's decision to axe the Livingstone Academy West London risks worsening pressure on secondary school places in the east of the borough – and is formally appealing in a bid to secure a rethink.

The proposed free school would have addressed a clear and longstanding shortfall in local provision, following years of joint work between Richmond Council and the Aspirations Academies Trust to deliver a high-quality secondary school for local children.

Councillor Gareth Roberts, leader of Richmond Council, said: "This is a deeply disappointing proposal.

"For several years now, children in the east of our borough have missed out on being offered a secondary school place on National Offer Day because demand already exceeds supply. That is not a future risk – it is happening now.

"The Livingstone Academy would have provided much-needed capacity and real choice for families, particularly with significant housing growth planned locally. Decisions about school places must reflect the realities communities are facing on the ground."

While welcoming the government's ambition to increase inclusive provision for children with special educational needs, the Council stressed this must not come at the expense of sufficient places for pupils without additional needs.

Richmond Council also rejected the suggestion that unmet demand can be met by sending pupils to schools in neighbouring boroughs.

Councillor Julia Cambridge, chair of the education and children's services committee, said: "Families consistently tell us they want their children to attend school close to home, alongside friends and support networks.

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"Expecting young people to travel out of the borough is not a realistic or fair solution – particularly given the continued closure of Hammersmith Bridge and the travel challenges that creates.

"Livingstone Academy would have offered something genuinely distinctive, with a focus on technology and digital creativity that is not currently available in Richmond or neighbouring boroughs. That opportunity should not be lost lightly."

The Council is urging Ministers to reconsider the decision.

"Our priority is simple," added Councillor Roberts. "Every child in Richmond deserves access to a local school place. We will continue to press government to work with us to make that happen."