Anglesey schools modernisation is 'bold blueprint', says Ieuan Williams

A £33m revamp of school buildings on Anglesey over the next five years has been hailed by the council leader as part of a "bold blueprint" for the future of education on the island.

The modernisation plan includes new schools and the closure of rundown buildings.

It also aims to tackle the number of surplus places in schools.

Council leader Ieuan Williams said the aim was to create a "lasting legacy for future generations".

"We're committed to ensuring that our children are taught in schools which meet 21st Century standards and expectations," he said.

"This means that the buildings must be fit for purpose, in the right place, meet pupils' needs and become a resource which communities can fully utilise."

Merger plans

Mr Williams, who as well as council leader is also responsible for education on Anglesey, said the authority had been criticised by schools inspectorate Estyn in the past for not being ambitious enough with its plans for the future provision of education.

But he added: "We now have a bold blueprint for the future of education on Anglesey and I'm grateful to the Welsh government for supporting our vision with a substantial grant."

Anglesey council will receive £16.7m from the Welsh government which it is matching to take the total to £33m.

The council's executive has already approved a major modernisation programme and a 15-year business case which, if fully realised, would cost an estimated £173m.

The longer-term programme will include school mergers and a reorganisation of catchment areas.

A maintenance backlog of more than £12m was already putting the long-term future of some existing school sites and buildings in question, the authority said.

A review of school buildings is currently taking place.