Financial boost is announced for two local schools

Education Minister, John O’Dowd, has revealed that Laurelhill Community College in Lisburn and Beechlawn School in Hillsborough will be included in the Department’s minor works scheme for 2014.

Beechlawn School in Hillsborough will benefit from £428,000 investment in the coming months from the Department of Education’s minor works scheme, whilst Laurelhill Community college will receive almost £150,000.

“During November, my Department agreed investment of nearly £428,000 for an outdoor playground and ground works at Beechlawn Special School in Hillsborough,” explained Mr O’Dowd.

“My Department also agreed investment of nearly £150,000 for ground works at Laurelhill College, Lisburn.

“A total of 81 minor works projects, amounting to over £8.4million were agreed in November bringing the total funding allocation this year to over £42million.

“This ongoing investment in the schools estate is having a positive impact on pupils, teachers and school staff and provides a much needed boost to the construction industry.”

Work carried out under the minor works scheme ranges from minor repairs to more significant refurbishment projects and extensions.

The Minister continued by highlighting the additional funding for schools’ maintenance and major capital builds.

He said: “In August, I announced an additional £10million for schools’ maintenance, bringing the total allocation to £47million for this financial year. Also, since last year, I have given approval to proceed with new school projects representing a potential investment in the region of £350million.”

In conclusion the Minister said: “I am confident that the ongoing substantial investment in minor works projects will help in the drive to improve educational standards.

“The completion of all of these works will ultimately provide better facilities for our children and young people to learn in and an improved working environment for teachers and other school staff.”