Plans to develop a new Fitzalan High School on land next to the Leckwith Stadium in the Canton area of Cardiff have been given the go-ahead.

The development represents a £63.5m investment in the local community and will see the existing Fitzalan High School replaced with a new-build 10 form entry school, which will accommodate up to 1,500 students between the age of 11 and 16, plus a sixth form.

The new school will offer comprehensive sports facilities including a multi-use games area, 3G pitches and a new indoor swimming pool, replacing the current pool which is already extensively used by local schools and community groups. These, and other facilities at the school will be available for public use outside school hours.

Deputy Leader of Cardiff Council, and Cabinet Member for Education, Employment and Skills, Cllr Sarah Merry, said: "The development of a new Fitzalan High School will mark the latest project delivered under Cardiff Council and Welsh Government's £284m Band B 21stCentury Schools Programme.

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"The benefits of replacing Fitzalan High School, which is in poor condition and nearing the end of its operational life is conducive to both learning and teaching. However, a state-of-the art school with modern amenities will also present new and exciting opportunities to local people, whilst representing significant investment in the surrounding area.

"The public consultation in the lead up to planning approval, played a key role in the development of the new school and encouraging feedback from members of the public showed their recognition for the opportunities that will be available to the local community."

Jason Taylor, operations director for Kier Regional Building Western & Wales, said: "We are delighted that plans have been approved for Fitzalan high school and we can support Cardiff Council and Welsh Government by delivering a school that will offer first-class facilities for its pupils and staff. We have extensive experience within the educational sector and through the Welsh Government's 21stcentury schools programme we have helped to transform primary and secondary educational settings across south wales.

"We fully support the ambitions of the Well-being of Future Generations Act and we are committed to leaving lasting legacies in areas in which we build, which means throughout the construction of Fitzalan high school, we will provide training and employment opportunities as well as engage with local residents."