Council approves £4.5m funding to expand school

The project is expected to be completed in 2027

A Kent school will receive a £4.5m investment amid rising pupil demand and population growth in the area.

Dartford Borough Council said Sir Geoffrey Leigh Academy would receive the money to create a new standalone sixth form block and additional teaching accommodation.

The local authority said the investment would allow 300 extra pupils to access education locally.

Work is expected to be finished by Easter 2027, it added.

Jeremy Kite, Dartford Borough Council leader, said the local authority was committed to "investing in young people's skills and opportunities, strengthening education infrastructure and supporting our thriving communities".

"I am proud that we can help in ensuring more of our local children have access to a fantastic education," he said.

The estimated total cost of the project is £10.7m.

Kent County Council, the academy's governing body, said it has secured approximately £6.2m and agreed to cover any increase in costs.