The number of people in North Somerset will significantly jump over the next 20 years, if new Government projections come true.

Estimates have calculated the population of the district could rise to about 250,000 in 2036.

A leading expert told the Times school places, health services and house prices will all come under pressure – forcing some people out of the area altogether – with the area forecast to see its population rise at one of the fastest rates in the country.

Simon Ross, chief executive of charity Population Matters, which addresses population size and environmental sustainability, said: “The general pressure on getting kids into schools will be big unless you build a lot more of them, and children might not get into such a good school as they do now, or have to go to one further away.

“GP services haven’t really expanded to meet demand either, so that will also be an issue.

“There will also be more energy costs and support costs, which go up as demand rises. But the impact will be a little bit less serious than in more densely populated areas, as there is that opportunity to expand.

“It will be interesting to see how the authorities will act.”