A NEW 360 place primary school and adjoining childcare facility in Glyncoed, Ebbw Vale, has moved a step closer after planning permission was formally granted.

The Council will now look to secure a contractor for the construction of the development through a tender process.

The build is the result of partnership working between the Council and the Welsh Government as part of the 21st Century School Programme, designed to invest into the school estate across Wales. This is a part of Band B Blaenau Gwent programme, which runs until 2025, and will see an investment of in the region of £26m into the school estate locally, including a new Welsh medium primary school.

The objectives of the 21st Century Schools Band B Programme is to address key priorities including:

Raising standards, particularly at Key Stage 4; increasing Welsh medium learning opportunities; meet the needs of vulnerable learners and have the right schools in the right places.

Councillor Joanne Collins, Executive Member for Education says:

“Providing the best educational standards and teaching and learning opportunities, as well as looking after the well-being of our children and young people, continue to be top priorities for us. A part of this is making sure that learners can access the very best modern facilities.

“We have a proven track record of working closely with our partners in Welsh Government to deliver on projects that allow our pupils to have access to modern, engaging learning environments in which to thrive and reach their full potential.

“I’m pleased the Planning Committee have granted permission so that this exciting development can go ahead, and to give the children and school staff in that area a brand new modern school to look forward to.”