WORK is set to begin on a £2.5 million expansion at an Andover school.

Funding was agreed for the extension to Icknield School on River Way in March 2021, which will will increase overall capacity from 78 places to 88 places.

Following an approval of a planning application submitted in late 2021, Hampshire County Council appointed Morgan Sindall Construction to undertake the work, which will begin on April 11, and be completed by December 19.

READ MORE: Icknield school submits planning application for extension

The plans see the school, which caters to children with additional needs, gain an extension to the south of the existing building, and will also feature a new staff room and storage space.

Installation of temporary accommodation week commencing April 4, which will be located in the car park to the north of the school, meaning the car park will be closed from that date until April 25.

In a letter to nearby residents on March 15, seen by the Advertiser, the construction company said its working hours would be Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm, and promised “regular updates” throughout the process.

SEE ALSO: Town council supports school extension plans despite concerns over space

Speaking at the time that funding was agreed, HCC’s executive member for education and skills, Cllr Roz Chadd, said: “The County Council is committed to further developing successful provision or creating new provision where possible to meet demand for places for children and young people with Special Education Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

“I am very happy to agree the funding for the refurbishment and expansion of Icknield School, which will provide a significantly improved learning environment and 10 more specialist school places.”