PEOPLE have had the first glimpse of plans for an exciting £63 million scheme to build a new first and middle school in Alvechurch.

The project, which will see Crown Meadow First School and Alvechurch Middle School rebuilt on one site, was taken a step further when builders HBG PFI Projects Ltd were chosen by Worcestershire County Council's cabinet to carry out the work.

The contractor's designs will also be on display next month in the village library.

Project manager Peter Parkes said he was "delighted" HBG had been selected from four strong candidates.

Plans to relocate the two schools and build a new library to the north east of the village off Birmingham Road were given the go-ahead in June last year.

The new site is also expected to provide facilities for the whole community, with buildings and playing fields available outside school hours.

Mr Parkes said: "This is a community project which will really improve the village.

''I'm sure residents will be delighted when they get the chance to view the designs."

HBG's designs will be on display on May 26 from 4-7pm and residents will be given the chance to speak to project chiefs about the development.

Building is expected to begin at the end of the year.