A SECONDARY school has won permission to create an extension for art classrooms.

Proposals were sent in to St Helens Council by Sutton Academy, on Elton Head Road.

A design and access statement prepared on behalf of the Board of Governors at the school by planning agents Lancaster Maloney stated the proposals would create "approximately 216 sqm" of "gross internal floor area of new-build single story extension".

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Plans added: "The new building will create additional accommodation for two 30 place art classroom plus additional store rooms for kiln drying etc.

"The proposed extension is located to the north of Block F Art Rooms to maximise the available space available and adjacent to the existing building. 

"The construction work for the new school building will take place over a period of approximately six months from spring 2023 to winter 2023". 

It concludes that the extension will provide "accommodation for pupils and staff to meet the basic needs of proposed future pupil expansion over the next seven years".

In a report recommending approval, case officer Alex Ball noted: "In this instance the new classrooms with additional store rooms for kiln drying etc would be located on a section of open space, however, the space does not serve a particular function in the school area and no objections have been raised".

It added: "The proposed extension will be attached to the school building within the existing built form and not actually upon the school playing fields. I am mindful there are existing playing fields and playgrounds within the school grounds meet the recreational needs of the school".

Formal approval has been granted.