CHILDREN in South Tynedale will feel as though they are walking into a "brand new school" when a £2.6m refurbishment project is finally completed.

That's the view of Coun. Ian Hutchinson, who represents Haltwhistle on Northumerland County Council.

Coun. Hutchinson attended a tour of the town's former middle school, which is set to be relaunched as Haltwhistle Primary School, alongside headteacher Susie Drake and Hexham's MP Guy Opperman.

"Touring the site really brings it home to you that this feels like a brand new school," said Coun. Hutchinson.

"I am sure the community will agree, the education of children in our area is continuing to move forward."

The county council is funding the project at the school, formerly known as South Tynedale Middle, and Haltwhistle Community Campus Upper School, which is now run by Wise Academies.

Coun. Hutchinson added: "It is great to see everyone’s hard work coming together and I can’t wait to see it up and running - thanks to all the support from Northumberland County Council and Wise Academies."

The school is scheduled to open in its new form in the spring of next year, and Mr Opperman was also full of praise for the project.

The Hexham MP said: "It is fantastic to see this school site coming back to life through significant investment from the county council.

"The new and improved facilities for pupils and staff will make a huge difference for the local community. It is great to see how well the refurbishment is progressing – it really is impressive."

Wise Academies ended middle school provision in September 2019 and extend the age range of the first school to offer primary provision.

The building will keep its large classrooms. Additional toilets are being added to each floor, and pupils will be able to access art facilities and a multi-purpose hall space.

The ground floor will welcome the youngest of the school's children through its nursery and reception, and will provide open space and learning areas.

The school will continue to provide a space for community activities and its children’s centre.

However, earlier this year, concerns were raised by local councillors, and retired former headteacher Lawrence Thompson over the planned removal of the first school’s existing gymnasium and learning centre, removing the school’s sports facilities.

Work on the project continues.