'Green' classroom go-ahead in Clun school expansion

A primary school in Shropshire is looking to build a new 'green' classroom after an application was granted by planning chiefs.

Teachers at St George's Primary School in Clun, near Craven Arms, say they need to extend the school to cope with rising pupil numbers. The classroom will provide space for about 30 additional students and eat up 60 square metres of playground.

School bosses say the classroom will be used by Year 3 and Year 4 children who are currently based in a small area of the school.

Shropshire Council has approved the application.

David Henderson, from YMD Boon Ltd who handled the application on behalf of the school, said the extension would also provide it with green energy.

He said: "The extension will turn into green project for the school. It will also alter little of the school layout.

"An area of the playground offers a suitable and effective area in which to extend the school. There is minimal impact with the construction of the new extension to the existing school footprint.

"The design is sympathetic and will match the existing school building. The doors and windows will again match that of the existing school building. The only break from the existing school is the use of a green sedum roof offering a sustainable environment for wildlife, with rainwater harvesting and solar panels to provide hot water for the extension and wet play area."

In recommending the plan for approval Shropshire Council planning officers said the extension was appropriate to cope with the school's expansion.

The report said: "St George's has grown over the years and expanded well beyond the original Victorian building.

"The proposal will add a further extension in a contemporary style to the rear of the building. The extension is much needed and will introduce the children to sustainable building ideas."