PLANS to transform a section of a school in the Dursley area have been given the green light.

A planning application was submitted last August to install a new portable teaching block and to carry out a major refurbishment at Peak Academy in Cam.

The project includes replacing a temporary classroom block with a new portable classroom block that includes three new classrooms and six toilets.

The scheme - which was put forward to Stroud District Council - also involves a refurbishment of the first and second floor of an existing building called the Old House.

A school spokesperson said once completed the work will provide "fantastic" new spaces for pupils.

Peak Academy - which is run by multi-academy trust Reach South - looks after around 60 children aged 11 to 16 who have a variety of social, emotional, and mental health needs.

A trust spokesperson said: "We are absolutely delighted to have received planning consent which is for a replacement modular teaching block and includes external refurbishment works to the existing Old House building.

"We are now in the process of engaging contractors to carry out the approved works and hope to be able to confirm construction start and completion dates shortly.

"Together, this work will provide a fantastic new suite of teaching and support spaces for our pupils."

However, Cam Parish Council objected to the application, stating the scheme proposed to use roof materials that could have a negative visual impact on the area.

The application was approved by SDC on Wednesday, February 28.

A planning document reads: "The proposal will restore the main building and replace an existing modular teaching block like for like.

"Due to the minor works and similar built forms being replaced it is considered that the proposal would not harm the wider setting sufficient to refuse this application."

Floor plans show that a new ICT room, a lift, an art space, a careers library, four toilets, and an independent life skills area with a kitchen would be added to the first floor.

In addition, a new research multi-agency space would be created on the second floor along with three offices, a head teachers office plus toilets.

Existing plasterboard ceilings will also be removed, the staircase will be refurbished and new flooring will be installed.

You can view the application quoting S.23/1700/FUL or see here - tinyurl.com/yfsj6n2s