Sandy,
I don't think it is that simple when looked at at a local level.

http://www.cypnow.co.uk/news/ByDisciplin...academies/

Lewisham have no plans for new schools, only increasing pupil numbers at existing schools. Funding for local councils is being taken away anyway, but local communities can 'recoup' some of this by setting up free schools which will be centrally funded.

Other local primary schools may also choose to opt out of LEA control, possibly providing a financial boost to that school without providing additional spaces for pupils. My preference would be for money to be spent where it is needed, in catering for an increase in pupil numbers.

The Montessori proposal is interesting because it provides a different style of education, not to every parents' taste, but ideal for others. In my opinion this makes it a more appropriate suggestion for a new school in an area that already has some very high performing LEA and church schools, but still has a projected shortage of places in a few years time.