A SCHOOL in Chelmsford is celebrating after being awarded a grant of almost £1million.

The £960,000, given to Newlands Spring Academy Primary School, in Dickens Place, will help build it a new hall and changing rooms and be used to extend eight classrooms.

Two temporary classrooms will be removed and three new ones built to replace them The generous contribution, from the Government’s Academy Capital Maintenance Fund, will also help to pay for a new kitchen.

The school has been looking to fund the plans for six years and work can now finally begin.

Headteacher Susannah Edom-Baker said: “We are delighted. This will enable the school to enhance and maintain a high level of provision for all pupils. We are also very determined this facility will be available for use by the whole community.”

The hall will be used for assemblies and performances and offer improved facilities for PE lessons.

Stephen Robinson, county councillor for the Patching Hall ward, is happy to see work now being able to go ahead.

He said: “I’m delighted the school has been able to extend the hall.

“It’s also a great idea that the school is able to open up its facilities and make them available to the public, so everyone can benefit from the money being spent.”

Local groups interested in using the hall once completed can call the school on 01245 442031.