Some exempted families could see the school from their homes

South Gloucestershire council had originally omitted the paths when working out the catchment area for Bradley Stoke Community School.

The authority has now included them after complaints from local parents.

But the U-turn - which comes into force next year - is too late for many children who have been refused places.

'Ridiculous situation'

The new �17m Bradley Stoke community school opened last September, initially taking in 180 year-seven pupils.

The intake will build up each year until the school eventually caters for 900 pupils aged 11 to 16.

The council has mapped out its Routes to School gazetteer using official roads and paths.

But some families complained that they were just a short walk or cycle ride away using other footpaths and these have now been included.

Liberal Democrat councillor Jon Williams, who supported their campaign, added: "We won't see a repeat of this year's ridiculous situation where children who could see the school from their home were unable to get a place.

"This is a victory for commonsense."

Local resident Alison Grotzke, whose son Josh is hoping to attend the school in 2007, said: "I am very pleased that this situation has been resolved and that these pathways have been included for next year's intake."