Plans are in motion for the construction of a much-needed primary school in Brecon, with an estimated cost of £19.3 million. The proposed school, which is long overdue, is intended to be funded primarily by the Welsh Government, with Powys Council seeking around 65% of the funding from the government. The new school will cater to the English-language school Ysgol Golwg Pen Y Fan, which began its operations last September across three different sites following the amalgamation of Mount Street Infants School, Mount Street Junior School, and Cradoc primary school. The planned 360-place school facility will be situated on the former Brecon High School site.
The funding proposal, prepared by council officers, suggests that the Welsh Government contributes approximately £12.54 million towards the project, with the council responsible for securing the remaining £6.75 million through borrowing. Marianne Evans, the council’s head of transforming education, highlighted the challenging situation of the school operating across multiple sites and expressed hope for the project to commence its journey towards realization. At a recent scrutiny committee meeting, councillor Aled Davies, the Conservative group leader, welcomed the funding bid citing the dilapidated state of the existing school buildings. He praised the inclusion of early years and wrap-around provision with multi-agency facilities for the students.
Councillor Gareth E Jones from Powys Independents deemed the progress as long overdue, emphasising the urgent need for new facilities as the current school buildings are considered outdated and inadequate in various aspects. The committee’s recommendations will be included in a report scheduled for discussion by the Liberal Democrat and Labour cabinet at an upcoming meeting next Tuesday. If all goes according to plan, the new school is projected to open its doors by September 2027, providing a modern and conducive learning environment for the students of Ysgol Golwg Pen Y Fan.
In a bid to enhance educational opportunities and address the challenges faced by the existing school infrastructure, the initiative has garnered support from various stakeholders within the community. The significance of investing in education infrastructure is vital for ensuring quality learning experiences and facilitating holistic development among students. The proposed new school in Brecon signifies a proactive approach towards advancing educational standards and creating a conducive learning environment for future generations.
The anticipated completion of the new school facility holds promise for the local community, bringing with it opportunities for enhanced educational experiences and improved facilities for students and staff alike. The allocation of funds for this project underscores the commitment of both the local authorities and the Welsh Government towards prioritising education and investing in the future of young learners in the region. The collaborative effort towards establishing a modern educational institution reflects a shared vision for fostering academic excellence and holistic development within the Brecon community.
As discussions progress and plans take shape for the construction of the new school, stakeholders eagerly await the realisation of this transformative project that is set to redefine the educational landscape in Brecon. The investment in a state-of-the-art school infrastructure not only signifies a commitment to educational excellence but also underlines the importance of providing a conducive learning environment that empowers students to thrive and reach their full potential. The journey towards the establishment of the new school in Brecon heralds a new chapter in the realm of education, promising a brighter future for generations to come.