QUARRY Bank Primary is to be rebuilt as a state-of-the-art new school as part of a multi-million project to remodel primary schools across the borough.

Dudley Council is to receive a £10.7 million slice of Government cash to regenerate its out-dated primary schools - and replacing the crumbling Quarry Bank school will be the priority project.

Much feasibility work has already been carried out and staff at the High Street school - which dates back to 1935 - are over the moon the long-in-the-making project is finally set to go ahead.

Headteacher Helen Johnson said: “We’re delighted for children and young people in Quarry Bank and indeed for the whole community.”

Stourbridge MP Lynda Waltho added: “It’ll be fantastic for children and staff. I’m really glad they’ve pulled it off; it’s long overdue.”

Quarry Bank councillor and school governor Bryan Cotterill said: “It’s been a long time coming, but I’m absolutely delighted; it’s good news for Quarry Bank.”

RedHall, Northfield Road and Blowers Green primary schools are also set to be rebuilt as part of the project, and Hawbush and Hasbury primary schools will undergo substantial remodelling; Olive Hill Primary School will also be refurbished.

Councillor Liz Walker, Dudley Council’s cabinet member for children’s services, is also pleased Dudley’s bid for the Primary Capital Programme cash has been approved.

The former teacher - who started her career at the old Quarry Bank Boys School back in 1965 - told the News: “It’s a school that’s in desperate need of rebuilding. I’m delighted Quarry Bank is going to get something new.”

Dudley’s capital allocation is part of a £3.55 billion scheme to create a new generation of primary schools across the UK.

MPs Ian Pearson, Lynda Waltho and Sylvia Heal and Ian Austin say the cash will be a welcome boost, but they are urging Dudley Council to use the money “quickly and wisely”.

Ian Pearson MP said: “As well as the obvious benefits of new and better schools for the primary school pupils and teachers of Dudley, this allocation will have a significant impact on the wider economy.

“There will be a host of valuable building and refurbishment contracts on offer, which will help to secure jobs in a variety of trades.”