AT least £3m will be ploughed into replacing a town's primary school.

St John's Church of England Primary School, in Shildon, will be rebuilt and will get new sports pitches, a games area and environmental improvements.

The 210-pupil school, in Jubilee Road, is currently based in two 1970s buildings.

The Durham Diocesan Board of Education will replace the buildings with a modern single storey school and multi-use games area and sports hall.

The new buildings will be focused around a central courtyard, which will include a secure early years play area and sensory and nature gardens.

Construction will take place in two phases and temporary classrooms will be erected while each block is rebuilt, so the school can operate as normal during the work.

Architect Elisa Mason said: "At the moment, the building is split into two blocks and the nursery is in one of their rooms.

"So the idea was to bring all key stage groups together so they feel part of the same school.

"The buildings are also cold and dark and we wanted to make a much nicer environment for children and staff.

"We've held workshops with the children and consulted with staff so the building is what they want and suits the area.

"Everyone at the school is so excited about getting a new school that they have helped with the design."

Planning permission for the scheme was secured from Sedgefield Borough Council's development control committee on Friday, with conditions.

Work is expected to start at the end of this year and it is hoped the new building will open in January 2007.

Shildon town councillor Garry Huntington said: "It is good news for the town of Shildon.

"The building itself will contribute to the regeneration of the town and will be a positive attribute for families looking to move to the many new houses being built locally.

"It is, of course, good for the pupils who deserve the best surroundings and goes well with academic progress it has made lately.