A £27 million programme to improve and modernise schools has been approved.

Schools across the county will benefit from projects to improve their condition in 2013/14 as part of the capital maintenance programme.

It includes:

• £5m to continue the phased replacement of worn-out buildings at Aldercar Community

Language College

• £3.5m for the phased renewal of buildings at Glossopdale Community College

• £2.25m for a new post-16 facility at Holbrook Centre for Autism

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• £800,000 to improve access at schools for pupils with disabilities.

Almost £7.7m will also be spent on condition-related issues such re-wiring, re-roofing, new windows or heating.

The programme sets aside £4.4m to replace worn-out buildings and a further £3.75m for Basic Need funding to ensure that every child of school age has a school place.

Ian Thomas, Strategic Director Children and Younger Adults, said: "This funding will allow us tackle a huge amount of work to improve schools across the county.

"While the funding doesn't allow us to carry out all the schemes we would like it will still enable us to make a massive difference to the learning environment for thousands of pupils.

"We have given priority to those buildings that are in the worst condition or where improvements are needed for health and safety reasons."

(CD/H)