Plans to build a new junior school in Ramsey are set to move a step closer this month, when Tynwald is asked to pledge almost seven million pounds on the project.

The new school site has been earmarked on Lezayre Road near Auldyn School (pictured) - and would replace Albert Road Junior school, which is more than 100 years old!

If Tynwald supports the scheme building would begin next month - with the new school opening its doors to pupils by 2008.

Marian Kenny reports:

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Almost half a million pounds has already been set aside - next week Tynwald is expected to approve the construction costs - totalling ?6,900,000.

The Albert Road premises cannot viably be modified - the school is said to be increasingly unsuitable for modern teaching methods and curriculum needs.

The new school will have state of the art facilities, including a double court sports hall, a floodlit training area and full disabled access.

The Arts Council has pledged 100,000 pounds towards equiping the hall so it can be used by the wider community for performances.

Like Auldyn School the new facility will be energy-efficient, featuring solar panels, wind towers and sun pipes.