A REMODELLING project will enhance an academy for both its students and staff.

Adderlane Academy in Prudhoe will soon have two new permanent classrooms to replace previous temporary units, a new shared area, entrance and admin area along with increased parking provision for staff and visitors.

A planning application was submitted to Northumberland County Council to create the new extension which was approved in June 2023.

Headteacher Emma Potts said: "The staff and children are very excited to watch the project develop. Adderlane Academy is a successful, hard-working school and I am very proud to lead it. This investment is going to future-proof the quality of education we provide and ensure our children are educated in modern, inviting and comfortable classrooms."

More than 20 comments supporting the application were submitted, including from Prudhoe Town Council and members of the public.

A spokesperson from WISE Academies said: "WISE Academies are proud to be investing in the future of Adderlane Academy to provide a high-quality learning environment fit for 21st-century education.

"The Adderlane Remodelling Project will transform the facilities for pupils by replacing life-expired demountable buildings with a new purpose-built classroom block. Alongside the classroom upgrades, we will be creating an attractive new entrance and administrative area along with accessibility improvements.

"In addition to enhancing the building, we will also be extending car parking facilities for staff and visitors, which will reduce the need for on-street parking. This extended car park will include an accessible bay.

"We sincerely hope that parents and the local community will warmly welcome this significant new investment in Adderlane Academy by WISE Academies in the Prudhoe community and which will bring long-term benefits to our children for many years into the future."

Cllr Gordon Stewart, also a governor at Adderlane Academy, said: "This major investment will make a massive positive impact upon the everyday life of the school and the wider community. Adderlane goes from strength to strength, it has the atmosphere of a village school but is set in a large town where every child is known as an individual and supported."

For more information, go to the council's planning portal and search reference number 23/00217/FUL.