Work has started on a £1.8m refurbishment and extension at Pinewood School, Blackburn.

The school serves the whole of West Lothian and caters for young people who have a wide range of additional support needs including autism.

The improvements include: six new classrooms, improvements to the physical education, improvements to IT communications facilities and the provision of a new central heating system.

Executive councillor for education, Andrew Miller commented: "I welcome the start of work at Pinewood, both the parents and staff have great commitment to the school. Last year the Parents and Staff Teachers Association (PASTA) worked tirelessly to raise £65,000 to improve the playground. They were also successful in winning a £50,000 grant for their ambitious project from a Big Lottery Fund competition.

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"I am delighted the council is now matching this commitment and enthusiasm with this £1.8 million investment. When it is completed the new classrooms and upgraded facilities will provide a quality learning environment, which will improve the learning experience for everyone at the school."

It is expected that work will be completed by next summer. The project is being managed by the council's Property Services with construction work awarded to Maxi Construction.

(GK/JM)