THE County High School Leftwich has officially opened its new multi-million pound learning and sports facility.

Students at the Granville Road school have moved into the new development which includes four classrooms, a new main entrance and reception area with improved pedestrian and vehicle access for parents and visitors.

Extensive renovations have also been carried out to improve sports facilities at the school and these will be available for public hire.

There is a new multi-use tennis and netball court, upgrades to the existing multi-use games area and improvements to the grass pitches.

The development was funded by Cheshire West and Chester Council and The Sir John Brunner Foundation and cost £2.4 million.

Head teacher Richard Warburton said: “It is a really exciting moment for our community, because with the opening of this new building it means we can welcome more local students and ensure they achieve excellence.

“We are very proud of the new facilities and the legacy that they create.

“Thank you to all our partners in ensuring the success of this project.”

Alongside the new development, the school’s existing building has benefited from major renovation work with students and staff enjoying library improvements, the creation of a drama studio and a brand-new physics lab and further classroom revamps.

The project is the biggest redevelopment at the school in recent history and sustainability was firmly at the heart of the design.

The redevelopment includes solar panels, air source heat pumps and LED lighting as well as charging points for electric vehicles and a new cycle storage shelter, all set within a biodiverse landscape design.

Matt Snelson, CEO of The Sir John Brunner Foundation, added: “As part of our foundation, we are delighted to have supported The County High School Leftwich in further enhancing their facilities and providing our students with the first-class learning environment they deserve.

“Thank you to the Cheshire West and Chester Council and Read Construction who have worked hand-in-hand with the school and The Sir John Brunner Foundation to deliver these fantastic additions to the school.

“I would also like to thank the community for their patience during the build and look forward to welcoming them when they make the most of the facilities in the future.”