A school has been given the go-ahead to replace its pipework and water system after it was found the current system could allow "for a risk of Legionella".

Stoke-by-Nayland Church of England Primary School, in School Street in the village, lodged plans with Babergh District Council in July. 

Proposals, which had been submitted by St Edmundsbury & Ipswich Diocesan Multi-Academy Trust, which the school is part of, said new pipework and water system would be installed as part of the works.

"The existing system allows for a risk of Legionella and much of it is beyond its serviceable life, in a poor condition and with risk of failure," a planning statement visible on the council's website said. 

Condition and risk assessments found faults with the age and condition of the pipes, with a risk of Legionnaires' disease present in the current system. 

The planning statement adds: "The proposal would eradicate the risk of failure and the risk of harm to the staff and students as a result of Legionnaire's disease, providing a public benefit which contributes to the asset's continued use, with no adverse impact on the significance of the listed building or conservation area."

Headteacher Kelly McGrath said no traces of the disease had been found at the school, which is Grade II-listed.

She said: "Stoke-by-Nayland Church of England Primary, which was rated 'Good' by Ofsted in its last inspection, teaches children in a wonderful Grade II listed building in the village, originally constructed in the mid-19th century. 

"However, the water system needed replacing to future proof the school building for years to come. This was a protective measure in a large estates plan. 

"We can confirm Legionella had not been found at the school and pupils and staff are not at risk."

The school in the village, near the Suffolk-Essex border, has 38 pupils according to details on the government website.