Executive providing new buildings for over 100 local schools

Finance Minister, Sammy Wilson has highlighted the Executive’s record investment in the education estate.

He was speaking during a visit to the construction site of the new school buildings at Banbridge Academy.

Speaking during a tour of the site, the Minister stressed the importance of investing in new school buildings and said: “The Executive is committed to investing in the future of Northern Ireland. One of its key priorities is providing capital investment for schools. During the current budget period, we aim to spend in excess of £700million under the Schools and Youth Services sub-pillar of the Investment Strategy. This translates into major works at over 100 schools across Northern Ireland.

“This means new, world-class facilities, for local children. Investing in new buildings is investing in our young people’s education. This is of vital importance in helping prepare them for the world of work.”

In April, the Banbridge Academy refurbishment and new build project, worth £16.9million, was selected as a demonstration project by Constructing Excellence Northern Ireland (CEni) due to its innovations in Health and Safety. The combination of management driven processes and behavioural based safety strategies is driving a cultural revolution in site based health & safety.

Mr Wilson continued: “Best practice and innovation is central to the survival of the construction industry. By sharing knowledge and building relationships local firms can not only benefit from government procurement opportunities in Northern Ireland, they can compete for work beyond these shores.”

“This project is a clear illustration of what can be achieved. The benefits to be realised from adopting best practice cannot be overstated in the current economic environment.”

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