Green light for £50m programme to improve schools

A £50m programme to build new schools and improve existing ones in Staffordshire has been given the green light.

The county council said "scores" of primary and secondary schools would benefit from refurbishment projects as part of the investment.

These include reducing schools' carbon footprint and lowering energy costs by improving insulation and ventilation as well as installing energy-efficient lighting and air-source heat pumps.

About £10m would go towards increasing the number of places for children with special educational needs and disabilities.

The funding was approved by the authority's cabinet during a meeting on Wednesday.

Councillor Jonathan Price at Staffordshire County Council said investing in the county's schools was "essential for our children's success".

"We're committed to providing the best possible education for every child, and our targeted investment in schools demonstrates this commitment," he added.