THE first sods have been cut on projects to transform two north Durham schools.
Work to create two state-of-the-art primary schools in the communities near Durham City is now underway.
The multi-million pound developments, £7.2m for Brandon and £6.4m for Esh Winning, will provide environmentally sustainable facilities for the pupils.
Councillor Claire Vasey, cabinet member for children and young people’s services, said: "Durham County Council has invested millions in these new buildings which demonstrates our commitment to invest in our children and young people to give them the best possible chance of fulfilling their potential.
"These schools will undoubtedly receive national acclaim and place Durham County Council and the communities of Esh Winning and Brandon firmly in the public eye."
They are designed by Red Box Architecture and constructed by Sir Robert McAlpine Ltd and Durham County Council.
The schools, hoping to gain a BREEAM (British Research Establishment Environment Assessment Method) rating of outstanding, are set to open in April next year.
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