To ask the Minister of Education what commitment to funding can he make for a new build following his acceptance of proposals to merge Coleraine High School and Coleraine Academical Institution, whilst increasing enrolment at Coleraine College.

On 24 September 2014 I approved the Development Proposals published on 7 May 2014 by North Eastern Education & Library Board (NEELB), to facilitate the amalgamation of Coleraine High School and Coleraine Academical Institution, whilst increasing enrolment at Coleraine College to 900 pupils with effect from 1 September 2015 or as soon as possible thereafter.

My Department will fund the works necessary to allow the amalgamation of Coleraine High School and Coleraine Academical Institution on one site and will give consideration, in conjunction with the school authorities, to the works necessary to facilitate the amalgamation.

However any proposal for a new build for the amalgamated school would be considered along with other projects put forward in advance of any future announcement being made.

I can advise that planning of a programme of minor works for Coleraine Academical Institution is currently underway. Details are as follows:

A scheme to provide disabled access at 3 locations in the school, including a revamp of the main entrance area will be taken forward at an estimated cost of £9975 in the current financial year.

Blacktop surfacing and associated works at various locations throughout the school complex will proceed in the near future at an estimated cost of £77,500.

Replacement windows in blocks 1-3 and 8-10 inclusive is expected to be carried out in this financial year at an estimated cost of £292,000 .

In addition further works are anticipated during the 2015/16 financial year; a number of schemes are currently being scoped by NEELB for replacement of war memorial changing rooms, refurbishment of gym changing rooms and replacement of non-compliant fire and access doors.

Coleraine Academical Institution also has a current scheme under the Schools Enhancement Programme (SEP) to address essential works relating to significant accommodation inadequacies and substandard accommodation. The work consists of partial refurbishment involving rewiring, refurbishment of heating distribution, M & E Services and building upgrade. This scheme is at an early stage in the design process and relates to the existing school site and not any proposed new build.