Bruce George MP is ecstatic with the decision announced by the Department for Children, Schools and Families that Walsall is to be fast-tracked to join the Building Schools for the Future programme this summer.

This means that Education Walsall (SERCO) in conjunction with Walsall Council can now start developing projects to rebuild and refurbish the five secondary schools in Walsall Borough in most need of investment.

Bruce George said “This is excellent news for Walsall. I am absolutely elated. The neglect over the years by Walsall Council of school buildings is now being seriously addressed. I have frequently highlighted the need for a new build for Joseph Leckie and Darlaston Community Science College and I am, therefore, convinced that they should be number 1 and 2 on the list. Although Blue Coat was only built 40 years ago I do believe that it should also be included in the priority list.

Joseph Leckie Schools has already had some funding to carry out major refurbishment and this announcement will, in my view, mean that the new build will now become a reality.

The process must be transparent with those schools in the most need being the beneficiaries.

These schools have worked hard to deliver a good standard of education in very difficult surroundings and conditions that are not conducive to learning.

This announcement by the government is a clear indication of the commitment that we have to transform the shape of education in our communities and will enable future generations to reap the rewards of these fantastic new learning environments and facilities.

Walsall have already been thinking and planning carefully for their Building Schools for the Future project and have shown they are ready to hit the ground running. Their bid was based on being able to demonstrate that they were ready to start projects from this summer. They must now put their words into action.

Now, more than ever, is the time to demonstrate our commitment to ensure a first class environment for the welfare and education of Walsall children.

My special thanks to the Government for including Walsall in the Building Schools for the Future programme from this summer.”