West Tamar councillors Tim Woinarski and Peter Kearney said the population of Legana would grow to 15,000 in the next decade, with growth expected in the outlying suburbs, and that a new school would be needed.

Mr Woinarski said he was very interested in an auditor-general's report that was looking at the number, location and efficiency of state schools, to be released this year.

"It will be good to see whether they end up closing some schools and identifying areas that need schools," he said.

"I would be surprised if they don't consider Legana for a new school.

"It is a top priority for people in the area."

Mr Kearney said Riverside schools were full while Exeter was nearing capacity.

The pair have not yet had discussions with Education Minister Jeremy Rockliff about a new school.

Mr Rockliff said no formal proposal has been submitted to investigate the need for a school at Legana.

In an interview in October he acknowledged it was a growing area.

"We have to look at the population statistics and demand before we would ever make a decision on the run about that.

"A lot of capital expenditure is required for that example to happen, but I'm on the record as saying that we are happy to investigate those options but they have to be evidence based."