Drone pictures show scale of Walsall woodland at centre of controversial £50m school plans

The aerial images give a bird's-eye view of Reedswood Park, where plans have been submitted for the new Windsor Apollo Academy.

The proposed development would see 13.7 acres of woodland cleared to accommodate the school, which would provide places for around 1,000 pupils.

From above, the pictures show the expanse of trees covering the site as well as its position alongside surrounding homes and roads.

The Department for Education has selected the former Reedswood Golf Course as the location for the new school, which would be operated by Windsor Academy Trust.

Plans include a three-storey school building, sports facilities and around 130 parking spaces, with vehicle access proposed from Reedswood Lane.

However, the scheme has proved controversial, with residents raising concerns over the loss of woodland as well as the impact additional traffic could have on surrounding roads.

The site includes woodland planted following the closure of the golf course, with trees donated to create a lasting tribute to Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee.

Read more: 'Huge uncertainty' for Walsall residents as major school decision looms

Opponents have argued that alternative sites should be considered rather than removing the woodland, while concerns have also been raised about wildlife and highway safety.

Supporters of the project say the new school represents a major investment in education in Walsall and will help provide additional secondary school places for future generations.