Schools rebuilding project moves closer

The scheme will replace dilapidated buildings

The building of five new schools in Derby is a step closer after three developers were shortlisted.

It is part of the city council's multi-million pound plans to replace old buildings with new, using private money.

Three companies have been shortlisted and have until December to submit detailed plans to replace inadequate buildings at seven schools.

The government has approved £43.8 million to cover the costs of the five schemes.

School rebuilt

The shortlisted companies are Bowmer and Kirkland/Amey, Jarvis and Vinci Investments Ltd.

A final decision on the preferred bidder will be made in spring 2004 with construction likely to start in summer 2004.

Councillor Les Allen, Cabinet Member for Lifelong Learning, said: "We are very confident that when we receive their detailed documents at the end of this year, we will be able to choose one that can work with us to provide top class accommodation for schoolchildren for years to come."

Derby's projects are; Merrill College where a new building will replace a split site, High View School and Technology Centre, with the school being rebuilt on the existing site.

Wilmorton Community Primary School/Southgate Infant School where the two schools will be replaced by a single new school on a new site probably within part of Alvaston Park.

Hardwick Infant and Nursery School and Hardwick Junior School will be replaced in a new building as a single, all-through primary school on the existing site.

Sinfin Primary School will be rebuilt on the existing site.