SEVERAL schools in Prestwich and Whitefield could be modernised and refurbished if given Government approval.

Bury Council’s ‘Strategy for Change’ is dependent on backing from the Department of Children, Schools and Families.

The decision is due in September, which could unlock a total of £70million for school rebuilding, modernisation or refurbishment of existing buildings.

The Guide can reveal that 15 primary schools have been singled out for substantial investment for new buildings or modernisation as part of a 14-year scheme. The local schools are: Whitefield, Heaton Park and Mersey Drive, in Whitefield, and St Hilda’s and Butterstile in Prestwich.

Millwood Primary Special School in Bury has already been prioritised for rebuilding and it is possible three other schools could be completely rebuilt.

More detailed plans are expected to be released by Bury’s education chiefs in the autumn to confirm which schools would be rebuilt, those that will be modernised and the timing of the schemes.

Already in the pipeline are refurbishment projects for Whitefield Primary, and Our Lady of Grace in Prestwich, as is a scheme to replace modular classroom accommodation at All Saint’s, Whitefield.

Ribble Drive and St Michael’s in Whitefield, together with St Mary’s in Prestwich, have also been identified for future investment to renovate existing buildings.