Schools’ ageing buildings get £9.8m revamp including new classrooms and toilets
Three schools are to be given cash for major revamps
Three Hampshire schools are set for major refurbishment works after almost £10m was approved to transform ageing buildings described as cold in winter and overheating in summer.
Crookhorn College in Waterlooville, Court Moor School in Fleet and Cove School in Farnborough will share £9.8m for new windows, roofs, insulation and other repairs.
Hampshire County Council said the schools’ buildings, many of which date back to the 1970s, are now in need of significant upgrades.
The council said the buildings can be cold in winter and too hot in summer, while some windows have been fixed shut because they are unsafe to use.
The improvements will include replacing old windows and doors, improving insulation, upgrading roofs and installing more energy-efficient lighting.
At Crookhorn College, the budget has increased from £2.2m to £3m to include further improvements to classrooms, toilets and a science block.
Cove School, the work will include a new heating and cooling system, while Crookhorn College will get solar panels as part of the project.
And Court Moor School’s project has increased from £3m to £3.8m after extra work was identified, including improvements to specialist classrooms, ventilation and fire safety.
County Council Leader, Councillor Nick Adams-King, said: "These improvements are designed to provide modern, comfortable and energy-efficient learning environments for pupils and staff, while reducing running costs and ensuring school buildings remain fit for purpose for years to come.
"Investing in our school estate is an important part of our commitment to supporting education across Hampshire. By improving insulation and replacing ageing building components, we can help schools reduce their energy costs and carbon emissions, as well as minimise future maintenance requirements.
“Following this summer's red heat alert, it is more important than ever that our school buildings are resilient to the impacts of a changing climate, helping to keep classrooms comfortable and safe during periods of extreme weather.
“We're continuing our long-term programme of modernising school buildings, making them more resilient to changing weather conditions and better equipped to support teaching and learning."
Work is expected to begin in spring 2027 and finish before the end of the year. The schools will remain open during the work, with temporary classrooms used where needed to allow lessons to continue.