A £63 MILLION project to create seven new schools in the Bromsgrove area is now officially under way following a special ceremony on Monday.

While some works have already begun on the scheme to create the new schools for the district, the actual opening ceremony took place at North Bromsgrove High School.

Leader of Worcestershire County Councillor Councillor George Lord, who lives in Marlbrook, and Richard Dakin, a director at PFI contractors HBG, led the opening party. The scheme will deliver new schools for South Bromsgrove High, North Bromsgrove High, Parkside Middle, Meadows First, Sidemoor First, Alvechurch First and Crown Meadow First. Work will take place over the next two years to deliver buildings fit for the 21st century.

Peter Parkes, project manager, said: "We're delighted to finally be at the ground-breaking ceremony. We were excited when we completed the deal within a target set over two years ago and even more excited now we're actually starting the project officially."

He added: "And of course we're delighted for the schools, staff, pupils and parents. For them, this is the beginning of a great adventure."