Plans have been unveiled to build two ‘super schools’ for three to 19 year olds in Powys. But the move could see the closure of at least three primary schools across the region.

A review is taking place in the Llanidloes and Machynlleth areas as part of a wider shake-up of education.

One option would be to close primary schools in Machynlleth, Llanbrynmair and Glantwymyn and build all-through schools in Machynlleth and Llanidloes.

But Powys County Council said super schools could be delivered across a number of campuses. However, if they are approved, it could be a decade before funding is in place to press ahead with the proposals.

The council has agreed to close 10 primary schools and build four replacements in and around Ystradgynlais at a cost of £36 million.

A report to the council by Councillor Stephen Hayes says in June 2010 the authority published a document on the ‘educational and economic challenges facing the county’.

He said in response the governing bodies at schools in Machynlleth, Llanbrynmair and Glantwymyn wrote to the council with a wish ‘to establishing an all-through school for three to 19 year olds in the area.’

He added: “Subsequently, an area review of primary schools has begun in the Bro Ddyfi and Llanidloes areas.”