The school was to accommodate youngsters from the 4,500 housing development off the A6, just outside Bedford.
In February only two pupils had their name down for the school roll and only five more have been added since.
The ultimate overall plan for the area is for two middle schools and an upper school - subject to any two-three tier change - but the recession has forced building works to slow and fewer people than expected have moved into the development.
When Bedfordshire on Sunday visited the site on Tuesday the school looked unfinished.
However, it was due to be handed over yesterday for operation from Tuesday.
It is expected to hold 300 youngsters when at capacity. A Bedford Borough Council spokesperson said: "Currently there are seven children registered at Lakeview Lower school, who will start their schooling in September.
"There has been a substantial rise in the level of interest in the last few weeks, as we get closer to opening the school.
"This is a unique situation with an entire new settlement and we are confident Lakeview will be the school of first choice for families who move into the new settlement.
"We wish all the young people good luck as they begin their learning adventure at the school."
