The Church of England’s plans for a controversial new school in north Kingston have been released.

The Southwark Diocesan Board of Education was one of two organisations – along with the Kingston Educational Trust, a partnership between Kingston Council, Kingston College and Kingston University – to express an interest in running a new school on the site of the North Kingston Centre, about 500 yards from the borough boundary.

The plans have already attracted controversy.

Richmond Council has registered its opposition as it feels the proposed eight-form secondary school would have an adverse impact on Richmond schools, while a campaign against plans for it to be a church school began earlier this summer.

South-west London Humanists had expressed anger the diocese’s proposal would see the majority of places allocated to Christian pupils – and about 150 people signed an online petition against the church’s bid. However, the document handed to Kingston Council declared only one third would be handed out under that criteria.

A group of campaigning parents, teachers and church ministers in Kingston has welcomed the formal proposal.

David Campanale, chairman of the Kingston Church School Appeal, said: “This is a strong proposal by the Diocese of Southwark that will offer choice that doesn’t currently exist at present for residents.

“The Church of England will provide an exciting educational experience that will tackle under-achievement and increase the highest levels of attainment in Kingston.

“The bid by Southwark is the product of a transparent process, which has been open to dialogue, critique and input. It is stronger as a result.

“It is also clear the diocese has listened to the public over such questions as admissions.”

The future of the plan was thrown into doubt as funding for the building was due to come from the Building Schools for the Future programme, which was scrapped by the Government.

But Councillor Liz Green, Kingston Council executive member for education, said she was confident the council would still receive Government funding for the new school and have it open in September 2015.

Kingston Council is currently consulting on plans for the school. A public meeting is being held tonight at Fern Hill Primary School, Richmond Road, Kingston, at 6.30pm. More information is available at kingston.gov.uk.

Humanists will hold a public meeting at the Hawker Centre, Richmond Road, Kingston, on Monday.