BUILDINGS at a Winchester secondary school will be refurbished as part of a £3 million project to modernise classrooms, reduce energy costs and replace windows, doors and lights.

Hampshire County Council leader Roy Perry has approved plans to upgrade buildings built in the 1960s at The Westgate School in Fulflood at a cost of £1,048,000.

Grants were also approved for Alderwood School, Aldershot - £932,000 and Applemore College, Dibden Purlieu – £1,048,000.

Cllr Perry said: “Whilst structurally sound, buildings at these three schools are in need of work – with poor insulation and relatively high energy costs.

“Recladding the buildings will not only reduce energy costs and help protect the environment, but will also extend the life of the buildings. Windows, doors and lights will be replaced and classrooms will be modernised. This method has been tried and tested successfully in over 30 Hampshire school buildings, making them more sustainable and delivering the best value for money for taxpayers.”

Cllr Peter Edgar, executive member for education, added: “This investment is very important, as the quality of school buildings is a significant factor in the success of a child’s learning. These upgraded buildings will create brighter and more inspiring buildings in which pupils can thrive and succeed.”

The system to reclad these buildings has been developed in consultation with Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service as part of the now decade-long close working partnership with county council.

Works at The Westgate School are due start in the summer.