A SCHOOL which was built on shaky foundations is to be replaced.

St Clare's RC Primary School, in Acklam, Middlesbrough, will be built on the playing field of the existing school, which will be demolished.

Headteacher Sue Fall said: "The school is built on shale and over the years the foundations have been crumbling.

"We have cracks in the walls.

"It is structurally sound, a structural engineer carries out an inspection every six months. The problem is the long-term.

"I have been here for five years and we have always had problems.

"Before, the roof had to be fixed. Other things have been fixed and it has got to the point the cost of repairs was close to the cost of having a new building.''

The Government has backed a bid for cash to help with the £2.3m build, and parents are being invited to an open evening at St Clare's, on Tuesday, to view the proposed design.

The old school will be demolished and the site seeded and turned into playing fields.

Parents have raised £3,000 in four months for the new school.

Work is expected to start in summer, with a grand opening, the following September.

Mrs Fall said: "This is an extremely exciting and challenging time for St Clare's.

"We're delighted by the support we've received and we are all looking forward to working in our new school.''

Neighbouring Acklam Whin School has offered St Clare's the use of their playing fields.