Changes will be made to the Telford’s multi-million pound schools programme after a review was approved by Government in a bid to cut costs because of falling pupil numbers.

The scheme currently includes the building of the £35 million Abraham Darby Academy School, as well as the ongoing rebuilding of the Phoenix school in Dawley, moving the Wrockwardine Art Gallery and the Sutherland Business and Enterprise College, and the rebuilding of the Ercall Wood School.

Councillor Paul Watling, Telford & Wrekin Council said: “In common with many other local authorities, Telford and Wrekin has experienced a decline in its school population in recent years.

The impact of this allows for different options to be considered for the provision of secondary places and I am delighted the Government has agreed that we can go ahead and do that.”

“Our aim is to drive up standards and ensure that high quality education is in place across the borough, especially in our most disadvantaged communities. We are now drawing up plans to change the programme to ensure we achieve that. Our public consultation will start in early November.”

The decision to revisit the original plans was brought about by a Government plans to expand the academy programme. It also reflects a desire by the council to build new schools in existing communities as part of a plan to create a Co-operative Council.

A report detailing the new plans will go to the council’s cabinet on November 10 with the aim of a full consultation with the public starting the following day and lasting until next spring.

Telford & Wrekin Council is using a combination of its own funding, Building Sch-ools for the Future cash and contributions from key partners to make the changes.