STUDENTS and staff are “delighted” after permission was granted to expand a Southampton secondary school.

Yesterday, Test Valley Borough Council granted planning permission for the improvement plans at Saint George Catholic College in Swaythling.

The school, which is owned and maintained by the city council but falls under Test Valley planning district, is now due to benefit from a more “secure, attractive and stimulating” entrance as part of the project to create a single-storey extension in the courtyard at the front of the building.

Designed by the city council, the expansion includes a new library and enlarged dining facilities with new and refurbished pupil toilets also being provided in the existing building to accommodate the previously increased pupil numbers.

The council was not able to say how much the project was going to cost before the Echo went to print.

To accommodate the new facilities, the chapel, chapel office and admin spaces will be relocated within the school.

The expansion comes after a number of improvements were made at the school in recent years following an increase in the amount of pupils in 2014 after the college became a six forms of entry school for children aged between 11 and 16.

Headteacher James Habberley, said: “Our students, staff and everyone connected with our family at Saint George are delighted.

“A state-of-the-art library, dining room, chapel and additional toilets will allow us to have the space and quality of facilities the students deserve. The new entrance to the school will also provide a focal point, showcasing our values and mission statement.

“This expansion project reflects the size of the school we are now. Not only will these new facilities enhance our students experience, they will also bring new opportunities for them and our staff.”

Construction is planned to start in the spring of 2022 with the new school facilities due to be ready for the following Autumn term in September 2023.

The project forms part of the council’s programme to expand existing secondary schools and Councillor James Baillie, cabinet member for education, said: “This is a fantastic milestone in the ongoing expansion of St George Catholic College.

“These proposals drive forward our aim to provide excellent education and development opportunities for young people whilst supporting the school’s growth over previous years.

“By improving the quality of learning opportunities, we can do the best for the young people of Southampton and support a city of opportunity for all.”