THE site of a former Matchborough school can now be redeveloped - after the government's department of education gave the green light to its disposal.

The Department of Education and Skills (DfES) has released the site of Claybrook First School in Dilwyn Close so it can be marketed for development.

The school was closed as part of the 2001 Redditch Review and pupils, along with those from Icknield First School, were transferred to the newly created Matchborough First School.

Its site was originally earmarked for use as a Pupil Referral Unit (PRU), which would not have required DfES permission.

However, after the council carried out consultation with residents last spring, redevelopment looked the preferred option, although this would require DfES permission.

Residents also said they would like better access to the site off Millhill Road, requiring a mini roundabout at the junction with Easenhall Lane.

Speaking to the Advertiser this week, a county council spokesman said it could work together with Redditch Council on developing the landnow the DfES had granted permission.

He added that once a developer had bought the land, they could look at creating a mini roundabout to access it.

Matchborough ward councillor Juliet Brunner also welcomed the decision.

"It has been a big angst at neighbourhood group meetings, people have complained about vandalism and children going in there," she said.

"Hopefully now it will all be sorted out and this will no longer be a problem for residents."