A LONG-overdue facelift of sports facilities at a Worcester secondary school has been given the green light.

Members of Worcester City Council’s planning committee praised the planned renovation and extension works at Christopher Whitehead Language College in St John’s, involving the construction of a new two-storey PE block and associated facilities. Having met the city’s approval, Worcestershire County Council’s refurbishment scheme must now go before the county’s own planning committee for a final decision.

“I think it’s encouraging that improved facilities are being provided at the school,” said the city council’s deputy leader, Barry Mackenzie-Williams.

“They are certainly earning them – their results are good and I think this is an opportunity to make sure the facilities in the school are suitable for the 21st century.” The scheme will involve the refurbishment of the existing gymnasium and construction of a two-storey PE block with new changing rooms, offices, meeting room, staff accommodation and gym store, as well as an extension to the school’s dining room.

With Christopher Whitehead students also granted use of the facilities at the newly-opened St John’s sports centre next door, the scheme will leave the school with sports facilities which are second to none.

Headteacher Neil Morris said: “It’s fantastic for the school. The county council has spent £2.6 million on this school in the five years I’ve been here, which sounds like a lot – but it’s relatively cheap when you think they were going to build a new school down the road.”

County Hall yesterday dismissed concerns raised by city councillors that work on the new block had already begun before planning consent has been given.