A SIXTH form college has said it needs more classrooms to be able to cope with the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

Hereford Sixth Form College, in Folly Lane, has applied for planning permission for two mobile classroom as it prepares for an anticipated spike in students and social distancing measures.

College principal Peter Cooper said there were four reasons behind the planned development, which will see two mobile classrooms brought onto the site.

Students numbers, currently around 2,000, are expected to increase as more of its students are expected to "stay on" between the first and second year of their studies.

Mr Cooper said this is in addition to a "natural demographic increase" and fewer options available for school leavers.

He added it's likely students "won't be happy" with predicted grades they will be given as exams were unable to go ahead, and the colleges wants to give them the option to return to try and improve their results.

"These are challenging times for the up and coming generation of Herefordians," he said.

"Providing a safe environment whilst ensuring the quality of our choice and provision is vital for them. They must not be the generation who miss out and we will play our part."

The two double mobile classrooms will be situated on the border between the college and Aylestone School, plans submitted to Herefordshire Council show.

"The classrooms are required as a direct result of the Covid-19 outbreak and the pressures it will place on the existing accommodation on the site," the design and access statement said.

"The site has been selected in order to minimise impact on sports facilities and car parking provision."